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Clanmore Montessori School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Clanmore Montessori School community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Clanmore: Montessori
Clanmore has a Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What Clanmore says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Clanmore's programming is based on the philosophy of Maria Montessori, who advocated for an approach to children consistent with their natural development and their fundamental desire to learn. It is our mission to offer individual attention to the development of the whole child, always with respect for the rights, dignity and integrity of each. The program, classrooms and experiences are carefully prepared in accordance with the specific needs emerging at each stage of human development. Independence and freedom of choice, within the boundaries of developmentally appropriate activities, foster intellectual, social and physical growth, along with the emergence of self-esteem, personal dignity and mutual respect. The children become confident learners, channelling curiosity into exploration and experimentation.
Montessori offered:
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Clanmore: Equal Balance
Clanmore has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Clanmore says:
The Montessori math curriculum moves from concrete to abstract, from experiential to formula.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Montessori has a comprehensive set of purposefully designed math materials commencing at the Casa (preschool) level.
Calculator policy:
Calculators are seen as tools which can be used at the discretion of the teaching staff, provided such use does not allow students to bypass understanding of the concept(s) being explored. (middle school) Occasional use is at the discretion of the teacher or based on individual need. (upper elementary)
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Clanmore: Phonics-intensive
Clanmore has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Clanmore says:
A continuum approach moving from sound awareness, phonetic sound symbol association, reading of phonetic words, introduction of constant blends (phonograms) and words which contain them, irregular word introduction, supported by lots of reading practice.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Clanmore says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Clanmore: Process approach
Clanmore has a Process approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Process approach?]What Clanmore says:
There is a focus on the development of the mind and the development of the hand simultaneously. Fine motor control is developed, and sandpaper cursive letters are traced with the fingers. Progression then follows from chalkboards to paper. Children are encouraged to write content which is meaningful to them, and grammatical concepts are initially introduced and developed in a concrete, hands-on format resulting in an abstract understanding.
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Science
Science approach at Clanmore: Inquiry
Clanmore has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
As with most of our subject areas, our approach to science is rooted in experiential, hands-on opportunities, many of which are cross-disciplinary. At the preschool level biology, zoology and botany are covered, while the elementary programs add opportunities for the study of chemistry, weather science, anatomy and life science, among others. Middle school students might study bacteria for example, as part of the process of canning produce that they have grown themselves for sale in the small business they run (cross-disciplinary, science and micro-economy).
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 Clanmore: Equal Balance
Clanmore has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Clanmore says:
The seeds of a love of literature are planted by exposure to a wide variety of all literary genres. Shared enquiry is a component of the curriculum encompassing interpretative reading and Socratic seminar.
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 Clanmore: Core Knowledge
Clanmore has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Clanmore says:
Clanmore adopts an methodology whereby all subjects are approached in an inter-related manner, for example math would also encompass history (the history of numbers, the importance of math to early civilizations etc.)
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Clanmore: Equal Balance
Clanmore has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Clanmore says:
Humanities encompasses the study of subjects that help define what it means to be human. Subjects like geography, history, politics, economics and current events are taught in an integrated and project-based manner to give students the story of humans from hunter-gatherer societies to modern times. They are taught in a two-year cycle with Cycle 1 focusing on global ideas and Cycle 2 focusing on the story of Canada.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Clanmore: Equal Balance
Clanmore has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Clanmore says:
We use the AIM method of French instruction. Gestures, stories and music are used. The expansion of vocabulary and development of grammar concepts are supported within the safe and predictable context of a story that becomes deeply embedded in the students' minds. Through story-telling and drama, students learn words and phrases which enable them to engage in authentic discourse.
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 Clanmore: Creative
Clanmore has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Clanmore says:
Development of understanding that almost any material can be an art medium. Familiarity with various artists past and present. Still life, portraiture, and abstract drawing; collage, print-making, sculpture, textiles and crafts. The development of art techniques and introduction to design elements (colour, line, shape, form, space and texture). Concentration on the principles of art/design: space, rhythm, balance, variety, emphasis, repetition and unity. Using the Musikgarten program to enhance the Montessori music program, the children are presented with and develop the 5 basic components of music education: movement, listening, vocal work, playing of instruments and notation.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Clanmore: Light integration
Clanmore has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What Clanmore says:
The use of technology appears in the Upper Elementary curriculum and continues into Middle School as students are introduced to the use of computers as tools to enhance their work. Focus on keyboarding, word processing, network, internet and safety precautions.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Clanmore says:
The goals of the physical education program are to enhance physical growth and development, to develop physical skills and to nurture confidence in the child's own abilities and interactions with others. In order to achieve these goals, emphasis is placed on safety, fairness, rules and proper sporting behaviour. Physical education activities are always geared towards specific skills development and are age appropriate. Areas include physical fitness, health, movement and collaborative sport/games.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Clanmore: Not Ontario curriculum
Clanmore 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:
Clanmore has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Clanmore says:
The Upper Elementary children (grades 4-6) are introduced to issues surrounding puberty. Middle School students cover sex education under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In all instances, the topics covered are age appropriate and parents are informed of the timing and content of such instruction.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Clanmore: Montessori
Clanmore has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What Clanmore says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
At Clanmore you will find in our Preschool (Toddler and Casa enironments): -responsive programming -purposeful activity -positive encouragement -intellectual, social, physical and emotional development -a sense of belonging
Montessori Approach
Clanmore Montessori School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Toddler | Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
1.5 to 3 | 3 to 6 | 6 to 9 | 9 to 12 | 12 to 14 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
2 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
25% | 10% | 15% | 15% | – |
Overall approach
Orthodox
29% of schools
Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school doesn't use teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about Clanmore Montessori School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Clanmore offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Clanmore: Student-paced
Clanmore has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Clanmore says about their curriculum pace:
Each child is introduced to exercises and concepts based on his/her individual level of ability and at a pace that best suits his/her needs.
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 Clanmore says about their flexible pacing:
Montessori classrooms by definition use flexible pacing. The multi-year age mix in each environment helps to ensure that each student moves at his/her own pace in each area of development. Content is interest driven, but each child is exposed to basic underlying concepts inherent in the exercises and materials.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Clanmore: Supportive
Clanmore has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Clanmore says about their academic culture:
The expectation is that each student work to his/her full potential. Academic performance should reflect student capabilities as a consequence of internal and intrinsic motivation. Clear standards and expectations are outlined for students generally and may be adapted to suit the needs of individual students.
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.
What Clanmore says about their developmental priorities:
We aim to support the developing child to work to his/her full potential, whatever that potential may be. More generally, we encourage our students to develop social awareness and community responsiveness.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
What Clanmore says about their special need support:
We do not offer remedial/therapeutic support. Students are not withdrawn from the the classroom environments, however teaching staff is offered informal support and guidance to be able to implement the accommodations and modifications as outlined in any personal education plan. For a few students, a resource teacher works within the classroom to deliver one on one instruction on a limited schedule.
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 Clanmore says:
After careful observation, a psycho-education assessment may be suggested and a personal education plan is implemented based on the recommendations in the assessment. Students' strengths, challenges and learning style are addressed. For applicants with diagnosed difficulties, the nature of the learning disability as it applies to the particular student will indicate if our program can meet that student's needs.
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 Clanmore says about their gifted learner support:
Gifted students are welcome to advance at their own pace and individualized support is provided based on interests and need. Multi-age learning environments allow for accelerated pacing to be easily accommodated and customized to the particular needs of each student.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, Clanmore students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.
| NS | PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clanmore | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins |
| Site Average | 0 mins | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What Clanmore 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 | Gr. 1 to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
