Grade 3 Relives Magellan’s Voyage in 2nd PYP Assembly

by Rebecca Gillen

On 13 November 2025, our Grade 3 students shared their learning at the Unit 2 PYP Assembly, and they did such a great job retelling the story of Magellan’s voyage around the world.

We started with a fun German song about exploring, which helped set the mood for the presentation. The children then acted out the moment when Magellan asked the King and Queen of Spain for ships so he could sail west to find the Spice Islands. From there, they took everyone through the main parts of the journey using narration and short drama scenes.

The students explained how the sailors had to survive strong storms in the Atlantic and how they eventually reached South America, meeting local tribes near what we now call the Strait of Magellan. They also showed how the crew traded small items in exchange for food and water to help them continue their trip.

Next, the children talked about the long and difficult crossing of the Pacific, where many sailors became sick. When the story reached The Philippines, they introduced Raja Humabon and Datu Lapu Lapu and acted out the events leading to the Battle of Mactan. They showed how Lapu Lapu stood up to the Spanish forces. Even though Magellan died in the battle, the ship Victoria kept going and finally made it back to Spain, proving that the Earth is round and much bigger than people once thought.

The students put a lot of effort into this assembly, and it was lovely to see their confidence and teamwork on stage. We are very proud of them and the way they shared their learning with the school community.

---

Want to see our GESM student assemblies in person?

Book a school visit today: www.gesm.org/book-a-tour