Introduction
The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Personal Project gives students the freedom to explore their passions through independent inquiry. It’s one of the most exciting — and sometimes intimidating — parts of the MYP journey. One of the best ways to get started is by looking at real student examples that show how creativity, curiosity, and reflection come together.
In this guide, we’ll look at inspiring examples of successful MYP Personal Projects, explain why they worked, and highlight what you can learn from them. Whether you’re into science, art, technology, or community service, you’ll find an idea that sparks your imagination.
What Makes a Great Personal Project
A strong Personal Project:
- Reflects personal interest and motivation.
- Connects clearly to one of the IB Global Contexts.
- Demonstrates development of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills.
- Shows inquiry, creativity, and reflection throughout the process.
- Results in a tangible final product that communicates learning effectively.
It’s not about perfection — it’s about passion, planning, and growth.
Example 1: Designing a Sustainable Fashion Line
Student: Emma, Year 5 (Spain)
Global Context: Globalization and Sustainability
Goal: To design and produce a small collection of upcycled clothing that promotes sustainable fashion.
Process:
Emma researched the environmental impact of fast fashion and experimented with fabric recycling techniques. She created three upcycled garments from second-hand clothes and documented her process through photos and reflection entries.
Final Product: A mini fashion show and an Instagram campaign raising awareness about eco-friendly fashion.
Why It Worked:
- Strong link between personal passion (fashion) and global issue (sustainability).
- Clear evidence of research, creativity, and reflection.
- Action beyond the classroom — real-world awareness campaign.
Example 2: Building a Mobile App for Language Learning
Student: Hiro, Year 5 (Japan)
Global Context: Scientific and Technical Innovation
Goal: To create a mobile app that helps beginner learners practice English vocabulary.
Process:
Hiro taught himself basic coding and app design, tested prototypes with classmates, and improved the interface based on feedback. He documented his coding challenges and problem-solving process in his report.
Final Product: A working Android app with quizzes and flashcards.
Why It Worked:
- Clear technical innovation and learning new skills independently.
- Integration of research, design, and user testing.
- Reflection on persistence and problem-solving as key learning outcomes.
Example 3: Creating a Documentary on Local History
Student: Fatima, Year 4 (Kenya)
Global Context: Orientation in Space and Time
Goal: To explore and document the untold stories of her city’s historic landmarks.
Process:
Fatima interviewed local historians and filmed key locations. She edited her footage using storytelling techniques learned in her Language and Literature class.
Final Product: A 10-minute documentary video screened at school and shared online.
Why It Worked:
- Strong connection between personal identity and historical inquiry.
- Demonstrated communication and research ATL skills.
- Authentic engagement with the community.
Example 4: Launching a Mental Health Awareness Podcast
Student: Mia, Year 5 (Australia)
Global Context: Identities and Relationships
Goal: To create a podcast that encourages teens to talk openly about mental health.
Process:
Mia researched adolescent psychology, interviewed a counselor, and produced five podcast episodes featuring student voices. She reflected on how listening skills and empathy shaped her approach.
Final Product: “Open Minds,” a podcast series hosted on Spotify and promoted through social media.
Why It Worked:
- Deeply personal and socially relevant.
- Authentic product using modern communication tools.
- Reflection focused on growth in confidence and empathy.
Example 5: Designing a Low-Cost Water Purifier
Student: Diego, Year 5 (Mexico)
Global Context: Fairness and Development
Goal: To create a simple water purification system for rural areas using affordable materials.
Process:
Diego studied basic chemistry and water filtration methods, built prototypes, and tested results using school lab equipment.
Final Product: A functioning water purifier made from plastic bottles and activated charcoal, accompanied by an instructional guide.
Why It Worked:
- Strong research foundation linked to real-world need.
- Evidence of scientific experimentation and iteration.
- Reflection on social responsibility and innovation.
Example 6: Composing an Original Soundtrack
Student: Lara, Year 4 (Brazil)
Global Context: Personal and Cultural Expression
Goal: To compose and produce a short soundtrack inspired by Brazilian folklore.
Process:
Lara researched traditional rhythms, experimented with digital composition software, and collaborated with local musicians for recording.
Final Product: A three-track soundtrack presented with an artist’s statement.
Why It Worked:
- Fusion of culture, creativity, and technology.
- Clear artistic purpose and self-reflection.
- Balanced documentation of both process and emotion.
Lessons from Successful Personal Projects
All these projects share key qualities that made them successful:
- Authenticity: Students chose topics that meant something to them personally.
- Curiosity: Each project involved deep inquiry and a desire to learn new skills.
- Reflection: Students thoughtfully evaluated their process and growth.
- Impact: The projects contributed value — to the community, to others, or to the student’s own understanding.
Tips for Your Own Project
- Pick something you genuinely enjoy — it keeps motivation high.
- Keep a process journal to record progress and challenges.
- Stay connected to your Global Context throughout the project.
- Ask for feedback and refine your work as you go.
- Reflect honestly — both your successes and mistakes show growth.
Conclusion
The best IB MYP Personal Projects come from passion, purpose, and reflection. Whether you’re coding an app, painting, researching history, or creating change in your community, what matters most is how you grow through the process.
Let these real student examples inspire you to pursue a project that feels meaningful — one that expresses who you are, connects to the world, and demonstrates the IB values of inquiry, creativity, and action.
