WUIS 4th Annual World Philosophy Day
Philosophy—Bridging Social Gaps. This year’s theme for World Philosophy Day centers on using philosophy to bridge societal gaps. In line with this, our primary school has designed a series of cross-curricular activities around the imaginative theme of “magic.” These activities aim to guide students to see which ideas resonate through dialogue, build a safe space for expression, and cultivate qualities like empathy, collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking.
PART.01 Beginning with Curiosity
The Philosophy Station: Tianwen Corner, a dedicated space for philosophical dialogues, has been a part of our school since 2019. What started as teacher-led discussions has gradually evolved into a student-driven hub for thoughtful exchanges. This welcoming space fosters rational, secure dialogue among students, teachers, parents, and even visitors, empowering everyone to grow into wiser, more reflective individuals.
PART.02 Inspired by Imagination
Art is an extension of thought, and thought is the soul of art. It blends sensation and intellect to create visible, tangible ideas. First and second graders, guided by Ms. Fiona, explored the magical power of art. They followed in the footsteps of Henri Matisse, creating unique Fauvist sculptures to experience the magic of organic forms. They also experimented with water as a medium, designing sketches, making plates, and crafting mesmerizing water-print engravings.
PART.03 Rooted in Dialogue
The annual philosophy marketplace returned as lively as ever. As tradition dictates, “shopkeepers” brought intriguing topics, and “customers” came armed with curiosity, using thoughts and ideas as their currency for intellectual “transactions.” What were they discussing? Hard to say—magic, but also science and the unknown; magic, but also power and responsibility; magic, but also ethics and morality. Want to join in? Let’s talk!
PART.04 Driven by Inquiry
The special Roundtable Knights’ Debate marked this year’s World Philosophy Day. Students and teachers debated the provocative question: Should we eat a talking pig? The discussion delved beyond animals, exploring the act of thinking itself and the broader implications of morality and human responsibility. Can we embrace and respect diverse voices with empathy? Does speaking imply thinking? Through dialogue and reflection, we worked toward greater inclusivity and mutual understanding.
Building on the “Philosophy Fair” and “Roundtable Knights’ Debate,” teachers collected students’ thoughts on magic across grades. But what about adults busy with practicality, who seem to have outgrown the magic of imagination? In a special Parent Philosophy Workshop, Dr. Gu from ECNU guided parents to rediscover the magic and wonder in life and family.
Meanwhile, students explored the mysteries of the stars in science class, created magical short films in ELA lessons, and imagined spending a day with fictional characters during the mythology unit in Chinese lessons. These cross-curriculum collaborations provided students with rich, engaging learning experiences while fostering critical thinking skills. Is there magic in the world? Perhaps everyone has their answer. But more important than the answer is this: are you willing to explore the curiosity within?
PART.05 Growing Together