Early Years Provocation Concept Story Mats: Where We Are in Place & Time

LOOK and WONDER Discussion Mats for IB PYP | Inquiry-Based Provocations for Early Years

Looking for engaging IB PYP provocation tools that spark curiosity, support inquiry-based learning, and develop oral language and thinking skills in young learners? These LOOK and WONDER Discussion Mats are your ready-to-use solution! Perfect for Pre-K to Grade 3, these printable mats feature high-engagement images that help you introduce concept-based inquiry, project-based learning, and student-led thinking in a developmentally appropriate way.

Ideal for:

•IB PYP teachers

•Early years educators

•Project-based learning classrooms

•Inquiry-based instruction

•Visible thinking routines and provocations

What's Included:

•Over 20+ LOOK & WONDER Provocation Mats with real-world, thought-provoking images

•Editable blank templates for adding your own provocations and inquiry prompts

•3 differentiated graphic organizers for recording thinking and observations

•Designed for Concept-Based Inquiry in Early Years:

•Supports PYP concepts such as function, connection, form, and change

•Encourages slow looking, observation, and descriptive language

•Promotes student voice and ownership of learning

•Fosters critical thinking with visible thinking routines like See-Think-Wonder

•Easily integrates into any IB PYP unit of inquiry

These inquiry mats are more than just conversation starters—they’re a powerful resource for transdisciplinary teaching, helping students connect key concepts across themes such as Where We Are in Place & Time.

Concepts Explored Include:

•Place & time

•Journeys

•Exploration & Discovery

•Tradition & Heritage

•Innovation & Change etc.

Each mat invites young learners to think deeply, ask questions, and share ideas—building the foundation for lifelong inquiry and understanding. You can find provocation packs for upper grades here.

Need support in applying inquiry practices? Access more tools and PD in the ALL ACCESS Pass at PYPteachingtools.com.
Explore classroom-ready resources for IB PYP, inquiry-based learning, and visible thinking!

Enjoy!

Susan Powers

PYPteachingtools.com