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Académie de la Capitale ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at AcadeCap: Progressive, International Baccalaureate
AcadeCap has a Progressive, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive, International Baccalaureate?]
AcadeCap has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
What AcadeCap says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Every AcadeCap student benefits from the philosophy, the approach, and the curricula of the Ontario Ministry of Education and the International Baccalaureate. Our younger students, from JK to grade 6, follow the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), with classes taught 65% in French and 30% in English & 5% languages. Our grades 7 & 8 follow our own Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP) approach, with classes taught 50% in French and 50% in English or 100% in English. In grades 9 to 12, our students continue on with the OSSD curriculum (with bilingual certificate), taking full advantage of the higher-order thinking skills and rigorous preparation gleaned from completing the PSSP. At AcadeCap, we are a community of learners, encouraging the mingling of different age groups, especially when it comes to daily subjects and intra-curricular activities like Math, STEM (iSTEAM), Coding, Jiu-Jitsu, Violin, Vibrant Arts and Skiing, where ability and age do not necessarily follow in lock-step. The result is a collaborative atmosphere that one might be hard-pressed to witness in other schools.
International Baccalaureate program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Gifted, Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at AcadeCap: Equal Balance
AcadeCap has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What AcadeCap says:
Mathematics at AcadeCap can be broadly divided into three approaches. In the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), mathematics is taught using a concept-based, often visual and tactile, approach. In the intermediate years programme or Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP), mathematics is taught using a context-based, often narrative-based approach. Finally, in secondary school, mathematics is taught in an application-based, problem-solving approach. In practice, what we describe here as three approaches are really one system that progressively moves from one focus to the others, one continuum approach.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Défi Mathématique: 1 to 6 Singapore Math: Dimensions JK to 6 Oxford MYP Math: A concept-based approach: 7 to 12 Open Stax Mathematics: 7 to 12
Calculator policy:
Non-programmable calculator still required: 7 to 12 Calculator use introduced progressively from Grade 4 onward in Défi Mathématique
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at AcadeCap: Balanced Literacy
AcadeCap has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What AcadeCap says:
Young children develop early literacy skills in a rich, bilingual environment. Each classroom has its own library with hundreds of French, English, and some Spanish books, also with access to a larger school library with over 4,000 resources. Literacy development begins with fostering a love for books and an awareness of print in one’s surroundings. Young children learn how to handle books and follow text, recognizing that different symbols represent distinct sounds and letter names. Phonological awareness is built through playful engagement using songs, rhymes, and tongue twisters. Recognizing letters and symbols in everyday settings is emphasized. A vocabulary-rich environment—where children are regularly read to and engaged in conversation—actually supports language development, reading, writing and listening skills. To build narrative skills, they describe events, tell stories, understand sequencing, and make predictions. This foundation ensures children gain the basics needed to learn how to read and to write.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What AcadeCap says:
PM benchmark in English and GB+ in French are the preferred tools to assess reading progress in children.
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Writing
Writing approach at AcadeCap: Equal balance
AcadeCap has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at AcadeCap: Inquiry
AcadeCap has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
What truly sets AcadeCap apart is our meaningful integration of iSTEAM—innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—across all grade levels, from primary through secondary. This is supported by a dedicated iSTEAM lab, thoughtfully located near our media and art rooms, where students explore ideas across disciplines in innovative and engaging ways. The result is a dynamic learning environment where curiosity thrives and connections across subjects feel purposeful and real. Students participate in a wide variety of hands-on projects that bring iSTEAM to life. Each year, we partner with organizations such as Let’s Talk Science and engage in initiatives like Hour of Code and Computer Science Education Week. Our learners also take part in workshops led by experts from Scientists in School, Maker Junior, Carleton University, and the University of Ottawa’s Maker Mobile. These experiences empower students to explore, experiment, take risks, and grow as confident, creative thinkers.
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 AcadeCap: Equal Balance
AcadeCap has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
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 AcadeCap: Thematic
AcadeCap has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at AcadeCap: Equal Balance
AcadeCap has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at AcadeCap: Equal Balance
AcadeCap has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What AcadeCap says:
At AcadeCap, we believe strong communication skills are built through learning in two or more languages. Multilingual exposure helps students express themselves clearly and understand others across cultures. Students in Grade 1 and up have the opportunity to study a third language, primarily Spanish as well as Mandarin, Cantonese, German, Polish, or Arabic, contingent on demand and teacher availability. Additionally, the AcadeCap team and the student community are from diverse backgrounds and the diversity of languages is celebrated at AcadeCap to further enrich language learning.
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 AcadeCap: Equal Balance
AcadeCap has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at AcadeCap: Heavy integration
AcadeCap has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What AcadeCap says:
Our goal is for every student to begin—and for secondary students to complete—a meaningful journey in computer science. This journey goes beyond basic IT to include algorithmic problem solving, programming, and a deep understanding of how computers work. At the PYP level, computer science is integrated into the iSTEAM curriculum and Units of Inquiry, supported by specialist-taught periods. Young learners begin coding with tools like ScratchJr, Bloxels, and Dash Bots, engaging in hands-on, creative exploration of core programming concepts. As students progress, they explore languages like Python and gain experience with flow control, loops, variables, and logical expressions. Projects are often interdisciplinary and inquiry-driven. Older students go further, learning about the boot process, operating systems, terminal commands, and setting up a Linux environment. They also study binary code and how computers interpret, compile, and execute programs—building the foundation for intermediate and advanced coding skills.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What AcadeCap says:
At AcadeCap, physical education and well-being are woven throughout the student experience, from the IB PYP through OSSD. Our PSPE and PHE programs foster healthy, active lifestyles and social-emotional development. Students engage in movement-rich activities—indoors and outdoors—developing physical literacy, resilience, and cooperation. Through fitness, sports, yoga-inspired training, and Jiu-Jitsu, learners build strength, confidence, and discipline. Nutrition education and outdoor excursions support lifelong wellness. In our forested green-space, unstructured play encourages creativity, collaboration, and environmental stewardship. Our Jiu-Jitsu program, rooted in respect and self-control, empowers students to manage conflict, understand boundaries, and grow as confident, caring individuals. Together, these experiences nurture balanced, capable learners—ready for life.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at AcadeCap: Not Ontario curriculum
AcadeCap 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:
AcadeCap has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What AcadeCap says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at AcadeCap: Academic
AcadeCap has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What AcadeCap says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The JK and SK students benefit from the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) curriculum framework that enables 3 to 5 year old children to develop their full potential using guided inquiry and play as the best tools for exploring and studying mathematics, science and technology, languages, social studies, the arts, and personal, social, and physical education. We offer a 10-month or 10-month with summer camps inquiry-based programme for students.
Language
Learn about Académie de la Capitale's languages of instruction and enrolment.
AcadeCap is a bilingual / dual-immersion school with English, French as the primary language of instruction
| English - 40% | French - 60% | ||||||||
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Mandarin
Online Learning
Académie de la Capitale's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
Académie de la Capitale offers online courses to students.
Course schedule
| Period | Grades | Number of Courses | Start - End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full year | 9 to 12 | 32 | Sep 03, 2024 — Aug 31, 2026 |
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What AcadeCap says about their course format:
Synchronous: Students joining a in-person course with set times, providing a fully interactive experience.
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
What AcadeCap says about their academic support and services:
Dedicated teacher per course: Teacher is also in-person teacher, 100% online class time is with the teacher and onsite students.
Exam proctoring: We proctor the tests and exams together with the onsite students.
Student progress tracker: Through regular assessments and contact with the teacher.
Regular office hours: Teacher accessible during instruction hours, and in evenings at times.
Additional support: Teacher accessible during instruction hours, and in evenings at times.
Study groups: Strongly encouraged and online students are in full contact with onsite students.
Special needs support: Yes, on a case by case basis.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at AcadeCap: Accelerated
AcadeCap has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What AcadeCap says about their curriculum pace:
We stand out thanks to differentiated teaching methods, a concept-driven inquiry-based approach in the PYP, and a competency-based learning model in the PSSP and OSSD programs. Our science is enriched, and our math is advanced and challenging. Our educators are specialists in their fields with Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhDs.
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 AcadeCap says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at AcadeCap: Rigorous
AcadeCap has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What AcadeCap says about their academic culture:
Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale) provides a rigorous bilingual or English education from JK to Gr. 12. IB PYP students engage in concept-driven inquiry-based learning in i STEAM, Visual and Performing Arts, Humanities, International Languages and Personal, Social and Physical Education. The PSSP (7-8) and the OSSD (9-12) pursue in-depth understanding of content, teach students to work hard and make practical connections between subjects and the real world, preparing them for post-secondary 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 AcadeCap says about their developmental priorities:
The Acadecap student is unlike any other. He or she not only develops the ability to think and to question critically, ethically, and divergently, but also the ability to create design and build. It is our aim to develop academically successful students, who also have the gumption to take risks, to innovate, and to tackle the unknown.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
AcadeCap is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What AcadeCap says about their special need support:
Acadecap International School offers support on a case-by-case basis upon meeting with parents and assessing the child's 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 AcadeCap says:
At Acadecap International School, differentiation is acknowledged as a sound teaching practice applicable to all students. Our small classes and open-concept space allow for a great deal of flexibility, opportunity and time to differentiate, giving every student the varying levels of support needed. Tutoring and one-on-one instruction can also be provided, such as Orton-Gillingham-based multisensory teaching. Specialists are also called in to provide additional support, if required. Before admission, all potential students are required to spend a visit day with a class, where he or she will be evaluated.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
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 AcadeCap says about their gifted learner support:
Gifted and motivated students are well served by the International Baccalaureate PYP concept-driven curriculum and the global perspectives' approach. The thinking-skills component based on Blooms' taxonomy, and intrinsic to the IB conceptual curriculum, provides an intellectual and academic challenge to the intellectually gifted learner. Our educators constantly adapt to student potential, modifying approaches and course offerings via our 21st Century Learning Curriculum© in order to also constantly challenge PSSP and OSSD students.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, AcadeCap students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AcadeCap | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What AcadeCap says about their flipped classroom policy:
At AcadeCap, we flip the classroom by assigning basic content as homework, reserving class time for guided practice. This ensures productive learning, quick teacher support, and more time for deeper understanding, integration, and creative application of knowledge.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | SK to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to JK |
| Academic achievement reporting | SK to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
