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Arrowsmith School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Arrowsmith School: Progressive
Arrowsmith School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What Arrowsmith School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Arrowsmith School is a privately owned co-educational and non-denominational day school that is dedicated to helping students with specific learning difficulties. Students who come to Arrowsmith School have been struggling in school - some are just starting their schooling but their experience has already shown a pattern of learning problems. Others have been finding school a challenge for years. Each new student is assessed at Arrowsmith School so that we may identify his or her individual learning profile and then design a program of cognitive exercises for that student. Our program has been of benefit for students having difficulty with reading, writing and mathematics, comprehension, logical reasoning, problem solving, visual and auditory memory, non-verbal learning, attention, processing speed and dyslexia. Our goal is for our students to become effective, confident and self-directed learners for life and to enable them to achieve their goals of academic and career success.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Arrowsmith School: Equal Balance
Arrowsmith School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Arrowsmith School says:
Blended learning amidst cognitive transformations, amplify the Math Education at Arrowsmith School. Cognitive strengthening combined with online mathematical connections and classroom correlations, deliver a hybrid educational experience. Within this model, students learn how to regulate their learning more easily and become amply aware of their daily performance with verbal and numerical feedback. The small classroom size provides occasions to collaborate with peers, while their virtual learning gives opportunities for autonomy. Students increase their motivational levels and take more ownership of their own learning, as the processes foster critical thinking skills, self-reflection and confidence.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
JUMP Math Mathletics
Calculator policy:
Calculators are vital in our technological enhanced society. Students are encouraged to formulate a numerical estimation proceeding the use of their calculator, to ensure reasonable and accurate results.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Arrowsmith School: Balanced Literacy
Arrowsmith School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Arrowsmith School says:
Most students at Arrowsmith School receive one period of English each day. There are typically between four to ten students in a class, and classes are either 35 or 40 minutes in length depending on the period when they occur. Students are grouped according to their abilities so that there are usually students from multiple grade levels in any one class.\n\nThe focus of each class will depend on the needs of the students in it. Typically, students reading well below their grade level are placed in a class where the focus tends to be on decoding. In other classes, students read and discuss novels, short stories and non-fiction articles. They also often engage in independent reading comprehension exercises. Additionally, students work on developing their writing skills, learning basic paragraph structure and how to apply it to the composition of short essays. Students also work on revision and editing skills.\n
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Arrowsmith School says:
A reading placement test is given in September and formal, standardized tests are administered at the end of the year.
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Writing
Writing approach at Arrowsmith School: Systematic approach
Arrowsmith School has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Systematic approach?]What Arrowsmith School says:
Most students at Arrowsmith School will receive one period of English each day. There are typically between four to ten students in a class, and classes are either 35 or 40 minutes in length depending on the period when they occur. Students are grouped according to their abilities so that there are usually students from multiple grade levels in any one class.\n
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Science
Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
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 Arrowsmith School: Traditional
Arrowsmith School has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Arrowsmith School says:
The focus of each class will depend on the needs of the students in it. Typically, students reading well below their grade level are placed in a class where the focus tends to be on decoding. In other classes, students read and discuss novels, short stories and non-fiction articles. They also often engage in independent reading comprehension exercises. Additionally, students work on developing their writing skills, learning basic paragraph structure and how to apply it to the composition of short essays. Students also work on revision and editing skills.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Arrowsmith School: Equal Balance
Arrowsmith School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Arrowsmith School says:
Each Division receives 50 minutes of Gym every Wednesday. When the weather is nice we utilize the Parks near the school and during periods of inclement weather, we book space across the road at Timothy Eaton Memorial Church. Gym is an opportunity for students to have a period of sustained physical activity and to, most importantly, have a lot of fun.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Arrowsmith School: Not Ontario curriculum
Arrowsmith School 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:
Arrowsmith School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Arrowsmith School says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Arrowsmith School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Arrowsmith School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
Arrowsmith School'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.
Arrowsmith School operates as an online school.
What Arrowsmith School says about their course flexibility:
Arrowsmith School offers open enrolment throughout the year in both our online and in-person programs. Students can engage in an Independent Check-in Program for select cognitive exercises for ten consecutive months, beginning the 1st or 15th of the month.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What Arrowsmith School says about their course format:
Asynchronous: Our Independent Check-In Program provides the program and information students require to work independently. Students book time to meet 1:1 with a teacher each week, depending on need.
Synchronous: Our regular school year and summer program are synchronous and held within a Teams classroom environment with students working on their personalized program in our Brainex System. Teachers are available for instruction and support throughout the class and access live-time data to monitor student performance and engagement.
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 Arrowsmith School says about their academic support and services:
Dedicated teacher per course: Arrowsmith teachers on Ontario Certified Teachers who have received additional certification in the Arrowsmith Program Methodology. Classroom teachers are assigned to a class for each period.
Student progress tracker: Arrowsmith student progress and engagement is tracked in our innovative and comprehensive data management system, with results populating in live time to support monitoring, instruction and feedback. Students goals and results are available to the student and families on students personalized dashboards.
Special needs support: Arrowsmith utilizes an innovative brain-based program to address learning disabilities and undiagnosed difficulties in learning, including dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), dyscalculia (math) and difficulties with social awareness and executive functioning. Learning disabilities are address through a neuroplastic approach, empowering students rather than focusing on workarounds.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Arrowsmith School: Student-paced
Arrowsmith School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Arrowsmith School says about their curriculum pace:
Every student has a specific schedule of exercises to be completed during the course of a day. The exercises for each student differ depending upon that student’s unique learning profile, and include written, visual, auditory and computer exercises. Programs are modified on a yearly basis, depending upon year-end assessments.
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 Arrowsmith School says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Arrowsmith School: Supportive
Arrowsmith School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Arrowsmith School says about their academic culture:
At Arrowsmith School, school-age students attend Math and English classes daily in addition to completing their cognitive exercises. Students are grouped based on ability rather than age-appropriate grade and receive the supports necessary in order to meet with success in an academic setting.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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 Arrowsmith School says about their developmental priorities:
The goal of Arrowsmith School is to help students capitalize on their improvements and eventually reintegrate into a full academic program at a public or private school at their appropriate grade level following completion of a two-to-four year program of Arrowsmith cognitive exercises. Our goal is for our students to become effective, confident and self-directed learners for life and to enable them to achieve their goals of academic and career success.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Arrowsmith School is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What Arrowsmith School says about their special need support:
At Arrowsmith School we offer a program of intensive and graduated cognitive exercises that are designed to strengthen the underlying weak cognitive capacities that are hypothesized to underlie a range of specific learning difficulties. Each student's program is based on a careful assessment to identify the specific learning difficulties. Our Framework for Results includes a detailed assessment and identification of 19 learning dysfunctions; innovative methods which include specialized exercises and computerized programs; clearly defined and individualized goals; a positive, supportive and structured learning environment; building self-esteem by developing competence; and low student to teacher ratio.
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 Arrowsmith School says:
Students in the Arrowsmith Program are typically of average or above intelligence but are experiencing problems in school which may include difficulties with reading, writing, mathematics, remembering, understanding, or attentional issues. Each student is unique in his or her combination of problem areas and our exercise program is individually designed for each student. At Arrowsmith School, we utilize the Arrowsmith Program that is based on the philosophy that it is possible to treat specific learning difficulties by identifying and strengthening cognitive capacities.
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 Arrowsmith School says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Arrowsmith School students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arrowsmith School | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins |
| Site Average | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What Arrowsmith School 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. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
