One of the remarkable aspects of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is its adaptability, allowing teachers to respond to student curiosity while maintaining a focus on key learning concepts. This responsiveness was recently on display in Madame Ruud’s Eighth Grade French class.
As part of a unit exploring the diverse cultures in French-speaking countries, students learned about the daily life of a Senegalese teenager living in a small village near Dakar. The unit centered around key IB themes of culture, identity, patterns, and context. During a lesson, a student thoughtfully asked how cultural practices influence everyday life and artistic expression. Madame Ruud immediately saw an opportunity to deepen their understanding through an experiential learning experience.
Inspired by the question, she organized a visit to The Museum at FIT’s exhibit, Africa’s Fashion Diaspora, which celebrates the rich contributions of African designers and the global impact of African fashion. The exhibit offered a vibrant exploration of fashion as a reflection of culture, heritage, and innovation.
During their visit, students marveled at the artistry and ingenuity of garments and accessories crafted by designers across the African diaspora. They saw how traditional elements like water vessels—used in Senegal and other parts of Africa—are not just functional but often artistic expressions of culture. The exhibit highlighted the creativity and symbolism embedded in these objects and demonstrated how they influence fashion trends globally.
Students also explored how the concept of “diaspora” shapes identity and storytelling through design. From bold textiles and intricate beadwork to modern couture pieces, the exhibit provided a powerful narrative of how African heritage inspires fashion worldwide.
This immersive experience exemplified the flexibility of the IB framework, which encourages educators to enrich student learning through real-world connections. It allowed students to see their classroom lessons come to life and provided a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of culture, art, and identity.
Living in a vibrant community with access to world-class museums, our students have unparalleled opportunities to learn from exhibits that celebrate global perspectives. Thanks to our talented teachers, who embody the IB learner traits of caring, risk-taking, and inquiry, these experiences become an integral part of our curriculum.
Through initiatives like this, we ensure that learning goes beyond textbooks, fostering a lifelong appreciation for diversity and creativity. The Africa’s Fashion Diaspora exhibit was more than just a field trip—it was a celebration of culture and a testament to how the IB Programme empowers students to explore the world with curiosity and respect.
Cheers to our educators and students for embracing learning opportunities that connect us to the world around us!Join us for a tour of All Saints to see what an educational experience like this can do for your child! Simply complete our inquiry form to register for a tour or email our admissions office: jharrison@allsaintsdayschool.org.
