VALUABLE MYP INSIGHTS

By Andrea McNamara Assistant Director of Academic Education

(MYP Coordinator) – Senior School

We were delighted to have Lauren Cullimore, a dedicated educator with extensive experience in MYP assessment practices, join us at our staff professional conference in January this year. Lauren’s understanding of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes is evident through her roles as an IB Diploma Dance examiner, moderator, and consultant in the IB Diploma Dance Curriculum Review. In addition to being the MYP coordinator at St Paul’s Grammar in Sydney, Lauren also serves as a Programme Communities moderator for MyIB and as a workshop leader for the International Baccalaureate, where she travels globally to explore innovative educational methodologies.

The day began with a captivating keynote presentation by Lauren, setting the tone for a day focused on assessment in the MYP space. After the presentation, staff engaged in departmental strategic planning sessions guided by Lauren or the MYP coordinator, emphasising the importance of criterion-referenced assessment and subject-specific criteria unique to each MYP subject.

During department time, staff focused on criterion-referenced assessment, highlighting the importance of evaluating individuals based on established criteria rather than peer comparison. Additionally, the discussions delved into subject-specific criteria, where assessment standards were delineated into categories A, B, C, and D to address various facets of each subject. Assessment strategies were explored, advocating for a range of assessment methods customised to align with learning objectives and subject matter.

Throughout the day, the conversation revolved around assessment objectives, emphasising the evaluation of students’ knowledge, understanding, skills, and attitudes to foster a holistic approach to learning. Attention was given to assessment criteria and rubrics, ensuring that students are provided with explicit expectations through detailed rubrics, promoting transparency in the assessment process.

Lauren’s expertise and guidance enriched our understanding of MYP assessment practices, empowering staff to enhance their teaching methodologies and assessment strategies. This year, we have been implementing these valuable insights into our educational practices to benefit our students’ learning in Years 7 and 8.