Language learning in PYP
Languages at BBIS
In a PYP classroom, language is more than the vocabulary the students are exposed to or taught. It is the key to intercultural understanding and collaboration. Every conversation, every question and every story, regardless of a student’s mother tongue or background, enhances a student’s thinking.
Language learning is at the heart of how our students inquire, create meaning and work on building a better, more connected world.
At BBIS we offer language acquisition through our homeroom teaching in English and specialist teaching of Hungarian and Spanish. We pride ourselves on additionally providing opportunities for our home languages to also flourish within our learning environments. Aligned with the IB PYP philosophy, all aspects of our languages provision are embedded within our units of inquiry, enhancing the student’s awareness of connection from both a personal and international perspective.
Hungarian, Culture and Language
The language and culture of the host country is really important for us as an international school. Therefore at BBIS, there are two different methods being used for Hungarian language acquisition.
For non-native speakers of Hungarian – including students who don’t even speak a word in this language – BBIS offers an introduction to Hungarian Language and Culture lessons once a week. In these lessons, students learn basic words and phrases, funny or interesting traditions and customs that can sometimes come useful when they meet new friends or go shopping! Through various games and activities, all focusing on communication, children can become a little more familiar with this beautiful language and exciting culture.
For native Hungarian speakers, there are 3 Hungarian lessons a week. These are based on the Hungarian national curriculum about Literacy, Grammar, Composition writing, and also History in PYP 4 and 5 and MYP. The aims of these lessons are very similar to the students’ English / Literacy lessons. Our main goals are to develop communication skills and reading: reading both fluently and accurately, while developing different comprehension strategies and playing with the language. We believe that learning one’s mother tongue, the exact use of the language including syntax and a rich vocabulary, allows our students to orient themselves and thrive in their current and future lives as they explore their own culture, history, and traditions to create a proper overview and meaningful understanding of their country.
Spanish
Spanish has been chosen as our additional language here at BBIS because it is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, offering students valuable opportunities for global communication and cultural connection. With its clear, phonetic structure, Spanish is highly accessible for young learners and helps build confidence in language learning. Through exploring the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Spanish-speaking countries, students develop international-mindedness and a deeper appreciation of global diversity. Both key values within the IB PYP.
Our students from PYP 1 to PYP 5 enjoy two Spanish lessons per week, following a comprehensive new scheme of work designed to build confidence and fluency in communication. It focuses on developing key language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—through a structured progression of vocabulary and grammar development. Lessons are interactive, engaging, and practical, combining creative, hands-on activities with traditional learning approaches to make language learning both meaningful and enjoyable.