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Canada Nord Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Canada Nord Academy: Traditional
Canada Nord Academy has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Canada Nord Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Canada Nord Academy is committed to providing a high-quality Ontario education that challenges students academically while supporting their individual growth and aspirations. Our curriculum is designed to develop knowledgeable, independent, and critical thinkers who can communicate effectively, solve complex problems, and adapt to an ever-changing world. Students engage with the Ontario curriculum through a combination of structured instruction, inquiry, application, and reflection, allowing them to build both strong foundational knowledge and higher-order thinking skills. We place a strong emphasis on academic integrity, curiosity, and personal responsibility, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and strive for continuous improvement. Teachers foster an engaging learning environment through meaningful feedback, individualized guidance, and opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of ways. Beyond academic achievement, we aim to cultivate resilience, confidence, and adaptability, preparing graduates to succeed in post-secondary education and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
Our mathematics program combines direct instruction with inquiry-based learning. Students are first introduced to key mathematical concepts and procedures through structured lessons and teacher-guided instruction. They then apply these skills through problem-solving activities, real-world applications, and critical thinking tasks. The program emphasizes both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding, aligning with the Ontario curriculum expectations.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
Students are expected to demonstrate both mental and computational skills and appropriate use of technology. Calculators are permitted only when specified by the teacher or assessment guidelines.
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Science
Science approach at Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Our science program balances direct instruction with inquiry-based learning. Students first build a strong understanding of scientific concepts through structured lessons and guided practice, then deepen their learning through investigations, virtual labs, research activities, data analysis, and real-world applications. The program emphasizes both scientific knowledge and the inquiry process, enabling students to think critically, solve problems, and communicate scientific ideas effectively. Assessment includes a balanced mix of tests, assignments, investigations, and projects aligned with Ontario curriculum expectations.
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 Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
Our literature program emphasizes the close study of both classic and contemporary texts through literary analysis, discussion, and analytical writing. Students examine literary elements, authorial techniques, and historical and cultural contexts while developing critical thinking, communication, and evidence-based interpretation skills. Diverse voices and perspectives are included in accordance with the Ontario curriculum, but the primary focus remains on understanding and analyzing literature.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
Our humanities and social sciences program combines the study of foundational ideas, historical events, and significant texts with inquiry-based learning and real-world application. Students develop critical thinking, research, communication, and analytical skills while examining both historical and contemporary issues through multiple perspectives, in alignment with the Ontario curriculum.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
Our foreign languages program combines direct instruction with communicative and inquiry-based learning across Mandarin and ESL pathways. In Mandarin, students build foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through structured lessons on Pinyin, character recognition, and grammar, then apply them through dialogues, role-playing, and cultural explorations. The ESL program (ESLAO–ESLEO) develops English proficiency through scaffolded lessons that build vocabulary and grammar in a supportive environment, with students applying skills through collaborative discussions, academic tasks, and cross-curricular projects. Both pathways emphasize linguistic proficiency and cultural competence, enabling students to communicate effectively in real-world contexts. Assessment includes quizzes, oral presentations, portfolios, writing samples, and projects aligned with Ontario curriculum expectations.
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 Canada Nord Academy: Equal Balance
Canada Nord 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 Canada Nord Academy says:
Our fine arts program balances direct instruction with studio-based, inquiry-driven learning. Students first build foundational skills in artistic elements, principles of design, and technical techniques through structured lessons and guided practice across a range of traditional and emerging media and technologies. They then deepen their learning by applying the creative process to produce two- and three-dimensional artworks, using the critical analysis process to deconstruct artworks and explore connections between art and society. The program emphasizes both technical proficiency and creative expression, enabling students to explore a variety of materials, processes, and techniques in their own art production. Students examine works of art in personal, contemporary, historical, and cultural contexts, developing visual literacy and critical thinking. Assessment includes studio projects, portfolios, critiques, and written reflections aligned with Ontario curriculum expectations.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Canada Nord Academy: Heavy integration
Canada Nord Academy has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
Technology is an integral part of teaching and learning at Canada Nord Academy. Students use our learning management system to access course materials, video lessons, assessments, progress tracking, and teacher feedback. Digital tools are incorporated across subject areas to support research, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving while reinforcing Ontario curriculum expectations. Technology is used purposefully to enhance learning rather than replace sound instructional practices. Students also develop digital literacy and responsible technology use as essential skills for post-secondary education and future careers. In addition, Canada Nord Academy offers Ontario Computer Science and Computer Technology courses that provide opportunities to develop programming, computational thinking, and practical technology skills.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Canada Nord Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Canada Nord Academy: Ontario curriculum
Canada Nord Academy has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]What Canada Nord Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Canada Nord Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Canada Nord Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Mandarin
Online Learning
Canada Nord 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.
Canada Nord Academy offers online courses to students.
What Canada Nord Academy says about their course flexibility:
Canada Nord Academy is designed to provide flexibility without compromising academic quality. Students can register throughout the year, with no fixed semester intake or registration deadlines for most online courses. Courses are asynchronous, allowing students to learn at their own pace while receiving support from Ontario Certified Teachers. Depending on their goals and schedule, students may complete a course in as little as four weeks or take up to one year from the date of enrolment. There is no minimum course load, enabling students to take a single course for credit recovery or upgrade, or multiple courses as part of a full-time program. Students also have access to academic guidance and ongoing teacher support throughout their studies.
Course schedule
| Period | Grades | Number of Courses | Start - End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full year | 9 to 12 | 50 | Aug 07, 2026 — Aug 06, 2027 |
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What Canada Nord Academy says about their course format:
Distance: Students may complete courses entirely online without attending classes in person. Through our learning management system, they access course materials, submit assignments, receive teacher feedback, and communicate with Ontario Certified Teachers electronically. This flexible option enables students around the world to earn Ontario secondary school credits while meeting the same academic standards as students studying on campus.
Asynchronous: Canada Nord Academy's online courses are delivered asynchronously through our learning management system. Students progress at their own pace while completing structured lessons, learning activities, and assessments. Ontario Certified Teachers provide ongoing academic support, feedback, and guidance through the platform, email, and scheduled virtual meetings when additional assistance is required.
Synchronous: Canada Nord Academy offers in-person day school courses taught by Ontario Certified Teachers. Students receive face-to-face instruction in a structured classroom environment, benefiting from direct interaction with teachers and peers while following the Ontario curriculum. Small class sizes allow for individualized support, collaboration, and active participation.
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 Canada Nord Academy says about their academic support and services:
Dedicated teacher per course: Each course is taught and supported by an Ontario Certified Teacher who is responsible for instruction, assessment, feedback, and student progress. Teachers provide academic guidance, answer questions, evaluate student work, and ensure students meet Ontario curriculum expectations.
Exam proctoring: Where required, final evaluations are administered in accordance with Ontario Ministry of Education requirements. Depending on the course and assessment format, exams may be proctored online or in person to maintain academic integrity and ensure fair, secure assessment practices.
Student progress tracker: Students and teachers can monitor course progress through our learning management system, which provides access to completed lessons, assessment results, grades, and overall course completion. This enables students to stay on track while allowing teachers to identify and support students who may require additional assistance.
Additional support: Students have access to additional academic support through Ontario Certified Teachers via the learning platform, email, and scheduled virtual meetings. Individualized guidance, feedback, and assistance are provided to help students strengthen their understanding, address learning challenges, and achieve their academic goals.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Canada Nord Academy: Student-paced
Canada Nord Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Canada Nord Academy says about their curriculum pace:
Students follow the Ontario curriculum at a pace suited to their individual goals and schedules. While course expectations remain consistent with provincial standards, students have flexibility to accelerate or take additional time, supported by Ontario Certified Teachers and ongoing academic feedback.
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 Canada Nord Academy says about their flexible pacing:
Students progress through courses at a pace that aligns with their individual goals while receiving ongoing guidance from Ontario Certified Teachers. Our learning model combines self-paced online learning with personalized feedback, independent study, and differentiated support to ensure academic success.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Canada Nord Academy: Rigorous
Canada Nord Academy has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What Canada Nord Academy says about their academic culture:
Canada Nord Academy maintains high academic standards while providing individualized support to help students achieve success. All courses follow the Ontario curriculum and are taught by Ontario Certified Teachers, with students expected to demonstrate mastery of provincial learning expectations through ongoing assessments and final evaluations. Our flexible learning model and personalized teacher support enable students to meet these high expectations while accommodating diverse learning needs, schedules, and educational goals.
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: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
What Canada Nord Academy says about their developmental priorities:
Canada Nord Academy's primary focus is developing intellectually curious, independent, and critical thinkers who are well prepared for post-secondary education and lifelong learning. Through the rigorous Ontario curriculum, students build strong academic foundations, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills. We also recognize that academic success is supported by student well-being. Our flexible learning environment, personalized teacher guidance, and responsive support help students develop confidence, resilience, self-discipline, and responsibility. We aim to graduate students who are academically capable, adaptable, and prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world while taking ownership of their learning and future goals.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Canada Nord Academy is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more 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 Canada Nord Academy says:
Canada Nord Academy supports students who experience mild learning challenges by providing personalized academic guidance, flexible pacing, and regular teacher feedback. Students who develop learning difficulties while enrolled are encouraged to work closely with their teachers and guidance team to develop strategies that support their learning. Where appropriate, reasonable accommodations, such as extended deadlines or alternative assessment arrangements, may be implemented in accordance with the student's documented needs. While our flexible online and in-person learning environments can benefit many students, we assess each student's individual circumstances to ensure our programs are an appropriate fit. Families are encouraged to discuss their child's needs with our admissions team before enrolment, so appropriate support and expectations can be established.
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 Canada Nord 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. 12, Canada Nord Academy students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Nord Academy | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins |
| Site Average | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What Canada Nord 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 |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
