The first step in the Team Project is to use the topic list from the IGCSE Global Perspectives syllabus to identify a suitable local issue. Here are some prompts for each topic area to help you.

Arts in Society

  • What kinds of art events or exhibitions happen in our community?
  • Do you feel students have enough opportunities to participate in the arts at school?
  • Is there anything that prevents people from accessing or enjoying the arts locally?
Singing in a choir is great for health and wellbeing. Does your locality have sufficient opportunities to get involved in the arts? [Image: Shutterstock]

Change in Culture and Communities

  • Have you noticed any traditions or customs that are becoming less common here?
  • How have new residents or groups changed our community in recent years?
  • Are there any challenges when different cultures interact in our area?

Climate Change, Energy and Resources

  • What signs of climate change or environmental impact have you seen locally?
  • How do people in our community use energy – are there ways to save energy?
  • Are there any local initiatives to use renewable energy or reduce waste?
Is climate change affecting your area? [Image: Shutterstock]

Conflict and Peace

  • What kinds of conflicts happen most often in our school or community?
  • How are disagreements usually resolved here?
  • Are there groups who don’t get along well, and why do you think that is?

Development, Trade and Aid

  • What local businesses or industries are growing or struggling?
  • Is there enough support for fair trade products in our community?
  • How does our community support people or places in need, locally or globally?

Digital World

  • Do all students have adequate access to computers and the internet?
  • Have you or your friends experienced cyberbullying or online safety issues?
  • Are any members of our community being left behind by technological change?

Education for All

  • Are there students who face challenges in accessing education here?
  • What support exists for students with special needs or language barriers?
  • How could education be improved for everyone in our area?

Employment

  • Is it easy for young people to find part-time work here?
  • Have you noticed any groups who struggle more to get jobs?
  • Is there any employment in our community that is harsh, dangerous or underappreciated?

Environment, Pollution and Conservation

  • Where do you notice litter or pollution in our town?
  • Are there any endangered plants or animals in our area?
  • How do people in our community try to protect the environment?
How are global issues like plastic pollution manifesting in your locality? [Photo: Ocean Cleanup Group on Unsplash]

Globalisation

  • How have international brands or foods changed our local shops or restaurants?
  • Do you think global trends have affected our traditions or lifestyles?
  • Have livelihoods in our community been affected by any global events lately?

Health and Wellbeing

  • What health issues do you think are most common in our community?
  • Are there enough resources for mental health support at school?
  • How active are people in our area, and what encourages or discourages them?
Smoking remains a serious health issue in many areas. [Image: Shutterstock]

Law and Criminality

  • What are the most common crimes you hear about locally?
  • Do you feel safe in your neighborhood? Why or why not?
  • How well do you think people understand their legal rights here?

Media and Communication

  • Where do people get their news and information in our community?
  • Have you noticed any false information spreading locally?
  • Do you think everyone has a proper chance to make their voices heard?

Migration and Urbanisation

  • Is the population of our area growing or shrinking?
  • What challenges do new residents or migrants face here?
  • Are there enough facilities for everyone (for example, housing, medical care, transport, recreation, green spaces)?

Political Power and Action

  • How involved are young people in local decision-making?
  • Do you know how to contact or influence local government officials?
  • What local issues do you wish politicians would focus on more?

Poverty and Inequality

  • Are there families in our area who struggle to afford their basic needs?
  • Where do you notice inequalities in our community?
  • What support exists for people facing poverty here?

Social Identity and Inclusion

  • Do you feel everyone is treated equally in our school or community?
  • Are there groups who feel excluded or discriminated against?
  • What could be done to make our community more inclusive?

Sport and Recreation

  • Are there enough sports or recreation facilities for everyone?
  • Does anything prevent people joining sports teams or clubs?
  • How accessible are local activities for people with disabilities?
Are there any cultural or sporting events in your locality that need better promotion? [Photo by Samuel Wong on Unsplash]

Technology, Industry and Innovation

  • How do local businesses use new technology?
  • Are there opportunities for students to learn about technology or innovation?
  • What challenges do people face in adapting to new technology here?

Transport, Travel and Tourism

  • How do most people get around our town or city?
  • Are there any issues with public transport, cycling, or walking?
  • What local attractions could be better promoted to visitors?

Values and Beliefs

  • What values are most important in our community?
  • Have you seen any misunderstandings or conflicts about beliefs?
  • How are different beliefs respected or celebrated locally?

Water, Food and Agriculture

  • Are there issues with water use or quality in our area?
  • Where does our food come from? Is it wholesome, ethical and eco-friendly?
  • Are local farmers or food producers thriving or struggling?
Is your area losing biodiversity to monoculture? [Image: Shutterstock]