At the Australian International School Phnom Penh (AISPP), Foundation C students have been busy exploring imagination, storytelling, and expression through their engaging unit of inquiry: How We Express Ourselves. This creative learning journey led to the birth of a delightful classroom character, Ms. Mc. Goo, and culminated in an enchanting Puppet Theatre experience designed entirely by the students.
Bringing Inquiry-Based Learning to Life
The unit centered on developing students’ ability to become Risk-Takers, Communicators, and Inquirers, core attributes of the IB Primary Years Programme. Using storytelling as a medium, children learned to express their thoughts, emotions, and creativity. Guided by their curiosity, students took ownership of their learning by inventing characters and crafting stories that reflected their unique perspectives and ideas.
Ms. Mc. Goo—an imaginative and adventurous character—was the centerpiece of their tales. As students brainstormed, built on one another’s ideas, and worked collaboratively, they discovered the power of language, sequence, and performance in making stories come alive.
Crafting Stick Puppets and Creating a Puppet Theatre
One of the highlights of the project was the hands-on creation of stick puppets, allowing students to give physical form to their ideas. Armed with craft supplies, glue, and plenty of enthusiasm, the young learners crafted characters, settings, and props.
With guidance from their teachers, students then constructed their very own Puppet Theatre. This special stage became a storytelling space where creativity met communication, and stories unfolded with laughter and learning. The process not only honed their fine motor skills and artistic expression but also nurtured confidence in public speaking and performance.
A Playful Path to Deeper Learning
Through this project, students didn’t just learn about storytelling—they lived it. The unit fostered a sense of community within the classroom as students shared their ideas, listened actively, and built on each other’s contributions. It also provided rich opportunities for integrating literacy, art, and social-emotional learning in a developmentally appropriate way.
Parents and educators alike can take inspiration from how AISPP encourages active participation and authentic learning experiences in the early years. By blending inquiry with play and creativity, the school supports students in becoming lifelong learners who are confident in expressing themselves.
AISPP Continues to Lead in Early Childhood Education
As one of Cambodia’s leading international schools, AISPP continues to innovate in its approach to early childhood education. The Foundation C Puppet Theatre is just one example of how student-led learning and teacher facilitation can result in meaningful, joyful outcomes for young learners.
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