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#33 Making Learning Real with MYP Global Contexts: What, Why, and How

As an MYP educator, I know how important it is to make learning meaningful for students. Global Contexts are not just a part of the MYP framework, they are the key to connecting what students learn in the classroom to the world around them. Whether you are new to the MYP or looking to refresh your approach, here is a simple breakdown of what Global Contexts are, why they are valuable, and how you can use them in your teaching.

What Are MYP Global Contexts?

Global Contexts are themes that help students connect their learning to real-world issues. They give purpose to what we teach and allow students to explore big ideas and challenges that matter.

Here are the six Global Contexts:

  1. Identities and Relationships: Who am I? How do I connect with others?
  2. Orientation in Space and Time: How has the world changed over time? Where do I fit in?
  3. Personal and Cultural Expression: How do we express our creativity and culture?
  4. Scientific and Technical Innovation: How do science and technology impact our lives?
  5. Globalization and Sustainability: How are we connected? How can we protect the planet?
  6. Fairness and Development: What is fair? How can we create a more just world?

Each of these themes helps students see the bigger picture and understand how what they are learning applies beyond the classroom.

Why Are Global Contexts Important?

  1. They Make Learning Relevant
    Students often wonder, “Why am I learning this?” Global Contexts help answer that question by showing how classroom topics connect to real-world issues.

  2. They Encourage Big-Picture Thinking
    Global Contexts help students connect different subjects and see how they work together. For example, a project on sustainability might include Science, Geography, and Economics.

  3. They Promote Global Awareness
    One of the IB’s goals is to develop internationally-minded students. Global Contexts help students think about issues like justice, the environment, and culture on a global scale.

  4. They Spark Curiosity
    By focusing on real-world themes, Global Contexts encourage students to ask questions, think critically, and explore ideas that matter to them.


How Do You Use Global Contexts in Your Classroom?

  1. Start with a Plan
    When planning a unit, think about the big idea you want students to explore. Pick a Global Context that fits with your topic and ask, “How does this relate to the real world?” Then, create a Statement of Inquiry that links the concept to the context.

    Example: In a Science unit about renewable energy, you could use the context of Scientific and Technical Innovation to explore how technology helps us live sustainably.

  2. Use Questions to Drive Learning
    Global Contexts help you ask questions that guide students’ thinking. For example:

    • Factual: What is sustainability?
    • Conceptual: How do human actions affect the environment?
    • Debatable: Can we have economic growth and protect the planet at the same time?

  3. Create Real-World Activities
    Use the Global Context to design projects and activities that feel meaningful. For example, in a unit on Globalization and Sustainability, students could design a model of a sustainable city or research how different countries are fighting climate change.

  4. Encourage Reflection
    Help students reflect on what they have learned and how it connects to the real world. Ask them: “How does this topic affect me? What can I do about it?” This step helps students see themselves as active participants in creating change.




Example: A Simple Unit Plan

Unit Title: "Building a Sustainable Future"

  • Subject: Science
  • Global Context: Globalization and Sustainability
  • Big Idea: Technology can help us live in a way that protects the planet.
  • Guiding Questions:
    • Factual: What are renewable energy sources?
    • Conceptual: How does innovation impact sustainability?
    • Debatable: Is sustainability achievable for everyone?
  • Activity: Students create a model for a sustainable city, including renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management.

This kind of project not only teaches content but also inspires students to think critically and creatively about the world around them.

Why This Matters

Global Contexts make learning come alive. They help students see why what they are learning matters and how it connects to their lives and the world. As MYP educators, we have an amazing opportunity to guide students in exploring big ideas and taking action on issues that matter.

The next time you are planning a unit, think about the Global Contexts. Ask yourself, “How can I make this meaningful for my students?” When you start with that question, you are already on the right path.

How do you use Global Contexts in your teaching? I would love to hear your ideas!

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