Indirect Support:
ABC Montessori ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Summary
- Curriculum
Traditional, Montessori - Preschool/K Curriculum
Montessori - Montessori Approach
Moderately orthodox - Language
English - Curriculum Pace
Standard-enriched - Academic Culture
Rigorous - Developmental priorities
Balanced - Special needs support
No support - Gifted learner support
No Support - Extracurriculars
Available
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at ABC Montessori: Traditional, Montessori
ABC Montessori has a Traditional, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional, Montessori?]
ABC Montessori has a Montessori approach to supplementary curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
What ABC Montessori says about their overall curriculum and approach:
We offer a modern montessori program for children aged 2.5 yrs to 5 years. In their senior kindergarten year, the students reduce their reliance on montessori materials in favour of a more traiditional approach in time for their entry into Grade 1. From Grade 1 onward, our curriculum is academically intense and one that focuses on the basics of writing, reading, communication, and numeracy. Students learn traditional subjects such as English, Math, Science, Social Studies, French, Art, Music, and Physical Education.
Montessori program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at ABC Montessori: Equal Balance
ABC Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What ABC Montessori says:
Our Math curriculum is focused on perfecting the basics. A thorough combination of exercises and problem solving help the student to solidify the Math base which will aid them in understanding future concepts much better.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
We utilize the "Math Advantage" series of textbooks.
Calculator policy:
Students are not allowed to use calculators. They are encouraged to be able to think on their feet and to work though mathematical calculations using their mathematical abilities only.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at ABC Montessori: Phonics-intensive
ABC Montessori has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What ABC Montessori says:
Teachers present the reading curriculum using the phonics approach. Children learn to "sound-out" words using the concept of blending consonants and vowels. By using this approach, students learn to read any word. As the years progress, students have ample opportunities to read daily and to improve their reading and comprehension skills
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What ABC Montessori says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at ABC Montessori: Equal balance
ABC Montessori has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What ABC Montessori says:
Students learn to write short sentences at the JK level and progress to writing short journals at the SK level. At the Grade 1 level, students begin to learn how to write book reports and answer reading comprehension questions. As students progress through the grades up to Grade 5, students are presented with ample opportunities to write many different types of writing including descriptive, narrative, persuasive, and expository.
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Science
Science approach at ABC Montessori: Inquiry
ABC Montessori has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Our Science program is theme based and students explore the various themes at each grade level through the inquiry approach, often resorting to experiments to help them learn about the themes.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at ABC Montessori: Traditional
ABC Montessori has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What ABC Montessori says:
Students at the Grade 4 and 5 level dwell into novel studies, reading and studying in depth one novel per term. Each novel is dissected to help students explore the literature by exploring not only the facts, but also symbolism and imagery.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at ABC Montessori: Core Knowledge
ABC Montessori has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What ABC Montessori says:
The Social Studies curriculum focuses on Canada and its people; however, as the students progress, activities help to tie in the rest of the world. Students learn not only about Canadian geography and history but also the history and geography of the countries from where Canada's immigration originated.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at ABC Montessori: Communicative
ABC Montessori has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What ABC Montessori says:
Our French program commences at the pre-school level and its main objective is to have the students become familiar with the language, both phonetically and grammatically. Through a mix of grammar lessons, oral lessons, reading, and writing, students become proficient in the French language so that they are able to converse, read, and write the language with reasonable fluency at the Grade 5 level.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at ABC Montessori: Creative
ABC Montessori has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What ABC Montessori says:
Every class integrates the subject of arts to include visual arts, dance, drama, and music. Students explore various mediums of visual arts through out the year and tie these explorations with various themes during the year. Our drama, dance, and music program culminates into a fantastic Concert each year in which, every student participates and learns to appreciate the various cultures represented at our school.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at ABC Montessori: Light integration
ABC Montessori has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What ABC Montessori says:
As a pre-school, kindergarten, and lower elementary school, technology use is still at its infancy. We believe that students must first perfect their ability to read and comprehend before they learn to use technology in the classroom. As students progress to our upper grades 4 and 5, the use of computers are encouraged to supplement research for project and to produce research reports. Starting in 2023, students will be introduced to coding
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What ABC Montessori says:
The objective of the physical education program is to help students improve their fine motor and gross motor skills, while improving their strength, flexibility, and fitness as they grow. Various routines are taught to address our objective and game play and skills development are introduced to further enhance the program.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at ABC Montessori: Not Ontario curriculum
ABC Montessori has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
ABC Montessori has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What ABC Montessori says:
The Sex-Ed curriculum is explored at the Grade 4 and 5 level. It is based on teaching the students the biology involving sex-ed.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at ABC Montessori: Montessori
ABC Montessori has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What ABC Montessori says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Our CASA program is much more academic focused than the traditional material-only based Montessori program. Students work with textbooks, workbooks and readers as well as the Montessori materials and related activities. Language and math are the core of the curriculum.
Montessori Approach
ABC Montessori's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Toddler | Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
2 to 3 | 3 to 5 | 6 to 10 | n/a |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
7 hours | 7 hours | 7 hours | – |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
10% | 10% | 5% | – |
Overall approach
Moderately Non-Orthodox
13% of schools
Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school uses teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about ABC Montessori's languages of instruction and enrolment.
ABC Montessori offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at ABC Montessori: Standard-enriched
ABC Montessori has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What ABC Montessori says about their curriculum pace:
Our elementary program focuses heavily on Math and English. We have a strong Mathematics program that challenges students to think beyond the simple operations. Our Language program is one of only very few programs at still focuses on correct grammar.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What ABC Montessori says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at ABC Montessori: Rigorous
ABC Montessori has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What ABC Montessori says about their academic culture:
The academic culture at our school is strong. Our main focus on the whole schooling approach is highly academic with a focus on achieving fluency in literacy and mathematics, while supported by studies in French, Science, Social Studies, Music, and Physical Education.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What ABC Montessori says about their developmental priorities:
We are committed to academic excellence, personal growth and most importantly, fostering a love for learning.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
ABC Montessori offers No support
ABC Montessori offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What ABC Montessori says:
We are not a special needs school. However, we do acknowledge that special needs are on a spectrum and we have assisted many students in the past 30 years to deal with and overcome some learning difficulties.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What ABC Montessori says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 5, ABC Montessori students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| NS | PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Montessori | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 0 mins | 1 mins | 6 mins | 8 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 35 mins |
What ABC Montessori says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 1 to Gr. 5 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Nursery/Toddler to SK |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 5 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
ABC Montessori offers 0 competitive sports and 7 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Gymnastics
- Ice Skating
- Running
- Soccer
- Track & Field
Clubs offered
ABC Montessori clubs and programs information not available.
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