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Asland Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Alsand Academy: Progressive
Alsand Academy has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
International curriculum & programs at Alsand Academy: French National Curriculum
What Alsand Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
At Asland Learning Academy, our French curriculum is thoughtfully integrated into our early learning and preparatory programs to foster bilingual development from a young age. We follow a play-based, immersive approach that introduces children to French through songs, stories, games, and daily conversation. Our goal is to build a natural and confident use of the language, emphasizing listening and speaking skills first, followed by vocabulary and basic reading. We align our curriculum with recognized early childhood French language frameworks, ensuring age-appropriate progress and a strong foundation for future academic pathways, whether in French Immersion or Francophone programs. Lessons are led by experienced educators who create a nurturing, engaging environment that makes learning French enjoyable and meaningful. Our approach supports cognitive development, cultural awareness, and communication skills, contributing to the holistic growth of each child. By embedding French naturally into the school day, children gradually develop both understanding and appreciation for the language—setting the stage for lifelong learning and multicultural competence.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Alsand Academy: Equal Balance
Alsand Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, our math instruction strikes a balance between traditional methods and discovery-based learning. We use Singapore Math as our core program, emphasizing mastery through concrete-pictorial-abstract progression. Traditional techniques, such as direct instruction and practice drills, build foundational skills and fluency. Simultaneously, students engage in problem-solving tasks, math games, and hands-on activities that promote reasoning and conceptual understanding. Our teachers encourage students to explore multiple strategies, ask questions, and explain their thinking, fostering a growth mindset. We also incorporate real-world math applications and STEM-based challenges to make learning meaningful and engaging. Small-group instruction and ability grouping ensure each child receives the right level of support or enrichment. This balanced approach enables students to develop both procedural competence and a deep understanding of mathematical thinking.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
We use Singapore Math as our core textbook. Supplementary materials include Math Olympiad practice, manipulatives for hands-on learning, math games, and teacher-created problem-solving worksheets to support both foundational skills and enrichment across various ability levels.
Calculator policy:
Calculators are not used in early grades to ensure a strong foundation in mental math and problem-solving. We focus on developing number sense, computation, and reasoning through hands-on and visual methods. As students advance, calculators may be introduced for complex problem-solving and real-world applications, under the guidance of their teachers.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Alsand Academy: Balanced Literacy
Alsand Academy has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, we follow a Balanced Literacy approach that combines Whole Language with structured phonics instruction. Our early reading program incorporates read-alouds, shared reading, guided reading, and independent reading to foster fluency, comprehension, and a love of books. Phonics is taught explicitly through daily mini-lessons and reinforced through songs, games, and hands-on activities. We use levelled readers and decodable texts to support students at their individual reading levels. Word study, vocabulary development, and sight word practice are integrated into literacy centers and small-group instruction to support effective learning. Children are encouraged to make connections between texts and their own experiences, fostering a more profound understanding. By combining rich language exposure with systematic phonics, we ensure students develop the decoding skills and comprehension strategies they need for strong, confident reading. This approach supports all learners, including English language learners and those who require additional support.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Alsand Academy says:
We use DIBELS and other assessments to monitor reading fluency, comprehension, and phonics progress, guiding instruction.
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Writing
Writing approach at Alsand Academy: Equal balance
Alsand Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, our writing program provides a balanced approach that equally emphasizes creative expression and foundational writing skills. Young students engage in daily writing activities, such as journaling, personal narratives, and thematic prompts, to build fluency and confidence. Alongside these process-oriented tasks, we provide explicit instruction in grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling through mini-lessons and guided practice. Students learn to organize their ideas using graphic organizers and are introduced to writing strategies such as brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing. Our curriculum encourages students to share their work, fostering communication skills and a sense of pride in authorship. Writing is integrated across subjects to reinforce learning and make it meaningful. By balancing structured instruction with opportunities for authentic writing, we support the development of both technical skills and a genuine love for written expression.
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Science
Science approach at Alsand Academy: Equal Balance
Alsand Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
At Asland Learning Academy, our science program strikes a balance between direct instruction and inquiry-based exploration. We introduce core scientific concepts through engaging textbooks, visual aids, and teacher-led lessons, ensuring students build a strong foundational understanding. At the same time, we emphasize hands-on experiments, STEM challenges, and student-led investigations that promote curiosity and critical thinking. Students learn to observe, question, hypothesize, and record data through age-appropriate experiments. Projects are often tied to real-world themes, encouraging connections across disciplines. Assessment includes both traditional quizzes and tests, as well as presentations, journals, and collaborative projects. Our approach fosters scientific literacy and a spirit of discovery, while accommodating a range of learning styles. By integrating structured content with active exploration, we equip students with both the knowledge and skills needed to think like scientists.
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 Alsand Academy: Equal Balance
Alsand Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, our literature program balances traditional classics with diverse, socially conscious texts to foster both literacy and empathy. Students explore age-appropriate folk tales, poetry, and classic literature to build a foundation in language, structure, and storytelling. Alongside these, we include contemporary and multicultural books that highlight themes such as kindness, inclusion, identity, and fairness. Through read-alouds, guided discussions, and literature circles, students develop the ability to think critically, compare perspectives, and connect stories to their own experiences and the world around them. We encourage respectful dialogue and reflection on character choices, social issues, and the moral lessons they convey. Writing assignments and projects extend literary analysis and personal expression. By blending traditional literary works with socially relevant texts, we cultivate both strong readers and compassionate, open-minded thinkers.
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 Alsand Academy: Expanding Communities
Alsand Academy has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, we follow the Expanding Communities approach in our social studies curriculum. Young learners begin by exploring their own identities, families, and classroom communities. As they progress, the curriculum expands outward to include neighbourhoods, local services, city and provincial life, and global cultures. Lessons are grounded in students’ everyday experiences and encourage them to see themselves as part of a broader world. Activities include storytelling, role-playing, community walks, and cultural celebrations, helping students build empathy, civic awareness, and a sense of belonging. While historical content is introduced, the primary focus remains on understanding relationships, diversity, and social responsibility in age-appropriate ways.
Humanities and Social Sciences
What Alsand Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Alsand Academy: Equal Balance
Alsand Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, our language instruction blends the audio-lingual and communicative approaches equally. Students build foundational skills through repetition, vocabulary drills, and sentence patterns (audio-lingual), while also engaging in real-life conversations, role-plays, songs, and interactive games (communicative). This balanced method develops both accuracy and fluency in meaningful, age-appropriate contexts.
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 Alsand Academy: Equal Balance
Alsand Academy 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 Alsand Academy says:
The Expressive philosophy best describes our visual arts program at Asland Learning Academy. We believe that creativity is inherently personal and subjective. Our goal is to create an open and supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and express their ideas freely. Through diverse materials, themes, and techniques, children develop confidence, individuality, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Alsand Academy: Light integration
Alsand Academy has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What Alsand Academy says:
Light integration best describes our approach at Asland Learning Academy. We believe in developing core academic and social-emotional skills first, using technology as a supportive tool rather than a primary focus. Students occasionally use computers and tablets for research, learning apps, or presentation creation, especially in upper grades. However, screen time is limited in younger years to prioritize hands-on learning, collaboration, and critical thinking. We introduce basic digital literacy skills and responsible technology use through simple, age-appropriate activities. Our goal is to ensure students gain essential tech competencies without compromising foundational development in reading, writing, math, and interpersonal skills.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Alsand Academy says:
At Asland Learning Academy, our physical education program promotes holistic development through movement, mindfulness, and play. We focus on building motor skills, coordination, confidence, and healthy habits through fun and inclusive activities. Younger children enjoy activities such as yoga, dance, obstacle courses, and ball games to develop balance and body awareness. We incorporate nature walks and park time regularly to encourage outdoor exploration and a connection with the environment. As students grow, we introduce team sports, fitness challenges, and cooperative games to foster teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Yoga and mindfulness exercises are woven into our routine to support emotional regulation and focus. Our approach prioritizes participation and enjoyment over competition, helping every child discover the joy of staying active while supporting their physical and emotional well-being.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Alsand Academy: Not British Columbia curriculum
Alsand Academy has a Not British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not British Columbia curriculum?]What Alsand Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Alsand Academy: Academic
Alsand Academy has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Alsand Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
At Asland Learning Academy, we blend academic rigor with joyful learning. Our preschool and Kindergarten programs follow a structured, theme-based approach aligned with the BC curriculum. Each day includes teacher-guided lessons in early literacy, math, science, and critical thinking, supported by programs like Singapore Math and phonics-based reading. Learning centers are intentionally designed to reinforce academic goals through hands-on exploration. Our small-group rotations allow for differentiated instruction, ensuring each child receives personalized support. While academic development is prioritized, we balance it with purposeful play, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning. This hybrid model prepares students not just for school readiness, but for lifelong success.
Language
Learn about Asland Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Alsand Academy is a multilingual school with English, French, Spanish, Mandarin as the primary language of instruction
| English - 70% | French - 10% | Spanish - 10% | Mandarin - 10% | ||||||
Language of enrolment include: English, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, Hebrew, Polish
Online Learning
Asland Academy'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.
Asland Academy offers online courses to students.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
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 |
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Alsand Academy: Student-paced
Alsand Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Alsand Academy says about their curriculum pace:
We align with the BC curriculum while integrating global methods like Montessori and Singapore Math. This ensures strong academic foundations, critical thinking, and smooth transitions into public, private, or international schools. Our approach supports diverse learners while meeting BC standards and global expectations.
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 Alsand Academy says about their flexible pacing:
We use differentiated instruction and in-class ability grouping to tailor learning to each child’s pace. Small-group rotations and individualized tasks allow students to progress based on readiness. Our approach ensures support for those needing reinforcement and enrichment for advanced learners, fostering confidence and academic growth at every level.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Alsand Academy: Supportive
Alsand Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Alsand Academy says about their academic culture:
We foster a supportive academic culture that emphasizes growth, curiosity, and perseverance over perfection. Students are encouraged to set personal goals, take intellectual risks, and learn from mistakes. Our educators create a nurturing environment where effort is recognized and learning is celebrated. We use differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs and promote collaboration through group projects and peer support. Regular feedback, student reflection, and parent communication help reinforce a shared commitment to progress. Academic integrity, responsibility, and a love for learning are core values we model and expect. By creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere, we help students build confidence, resilience, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Secondary Developmental Priority: Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
What Alsand Academy says about their developmental priorities:
We aim to shape well-rounded individuals who are intellectually curious, emotionally intelligent, socially responsible, physically active, spiritually grounded, and refined in character. Our students are encouraged to think critically and creatively, communicate with clarity and kindness, and uphold the values of truth and integrity. We nurture emotional resilience and leadership, helping them lead both themselves and others with confidence. Through community involvement, they become socially aware citizens committed to positive change. We promote physical wellness through joyful movement and healthy habits. Spiritually, we support inner strength and respect for a higher purpose. With equal attention to intellect, emotion, body, spirit, and personal refinement, we guide students to become thoughtful, capable, and purpose-driven individuals.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
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 |
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 Alsand Academy says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 7, Alsand Academy students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alsand Academy | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins |
What Alsand Academy 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 |
|---|---|
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to SK |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 7 |
