A Guide for PYP Exhibition & Beyond
That’s what research is all about! Whether you’re investigating a global issue for your PYP Exhibition or simply trying to understand how things work, research gives you the power to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and find real answers.
But research isn’t just about gathering facts—it’s about making sense of information, connecting ideas, and using knowledge to take action.
In this guide, you’ll learn essential research skills, strategies, and tips to help you become a confident and independent inquirer. Whether you’re a student embarking on your research journey or a parent supporting the process, this resource is here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Research: What, Why & How?
What is research in the PYP context?
Research is a process of exploring, questioning, and discovering new knowledge. In the PYP Exhibition, research helps students investigate topics deeply and find solutions to real-world problems.
Why does research matter?
- It helps develop critical thinking skills.
- It fosters curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
- It prepares you to make informed decisions and take meaningful action.
How: The Inquiry Cycle & Where Research Fits In
- Tuning In: What do I already know? What do I want to find out?
- Finding Out: Gathering information from different sources.
- Sorting Out: Analyzing and organizing findings.
- Going Further: Asking deeper questions and seeking new perspectives.
- Taking Action: Applying what was learned to create change.
Research Skills Every Student Should Master
Formulating Strong Questions
- Use open-ended questions that start with: How, Why, What, If…
- Example: Instead of “What is climate change?” ask “How does climate change impact different regions?”
Formulating Questions by using Key Concept Questions
Formulating Questions by using Questions-Matrix Chart
Formulating Questions by using Booms Taxonomy
Finding Reliable Sources
- Books & Encyclopedias: School library, National Geographic Kids, Britannica
- Websites: News sites (.org, .edu, .gov), research databases, online journals
- Primary vs. Secondary Sources: Interviews, firsthand accounts vs. textbooks, articles
Evaluating Information
- C.R.A.A.P. Test: Check for Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose
- Cross-check multiple sources before accepting information as fact
Practical Research Strategies for Students
Taking Effective Notes
- Mind maps
- bullet points
- Cornell Note-Taking Method
- Highlighting key ideas instead of copying everything
Using Search Engines Effectively
- Use keywords: Instead of “animals in danger,” try “endangered species in Africa”
- Use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) for better search resultsExample:
Conducting Interviews & Surveys
- Prepare clear questions
- Take notes or record responses for accuracy
- Respect privacy and ethical considerations
Tips for Parents: Supporting Research at Home
- Encourage curiosity and discussions about everyday topics
- Teach children how to use kid-friendly search engines (e.g., KidRex, Kiddle)
- Help them analyze and question online information
- Guide them in organizing thoughts but avoid doing the work for them
Common Research Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Plagiarism: Paraphrasing and citing sources properly.
Information Overload: Breaking down research into smaller parts – focusing on key details.
Bias in Sources: How to consider multiple perspectives before forming conclusions.
From Research to Action: What’s Next?
How to turn research into real-world action:
- Create awareness campaigns (posters, blogs, videos)
- Present findings creatively (exhibits, plays, infographics)
- Implement solutions (school projects, community initiatives)
Reflecting on the process:
- What worked well?
- What challenges did I face?
- How can I improve my research skills next time?
Supporting Documents & Resources
- Research Planning Template (helps structure research)
- C.R.A.A.P. Test Worksheet (guides students in evaluating sources)
- Cornell Note-Taking Template (helps with structured note-taking)
- List of Credible Online Research Databases (Britannica, National Geographic Kids, etc.)
Research is a Superpower!
Research isn’t just for school—it’s a lifelong skill that helps us understand the world, make informed decisions, and create change. By mastering research strategies, students can take ownership of their learning and use knowledge to make a real impact.
So, what’s one research skill you’ll apply today? Let’s embark on this journey of discovery together!
