Indirect Support:
The Dalton School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Dalton School: Progressive
Dalton School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What Dalton School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Our curriculum is designed to challenge young minds and build confidence. All core grade level academic subjects such as reading, writing, math, science and social studies are taught in both English and Mandarin by native speaking teachers.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Dalton School: Equal Balance
Dalton School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Dalton School says:
Our math program is innovative and uses a variety of approaches. Using the JUMP Math systematic approach, along with a variety of hands on manipulative materials students develop a strong foundation in basic math skills. Teaching students to understand fundamental operations, along with the memorization of math facts helps students work quickly and accurately through daily math work.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
JUMP Math Program, Montessori Math Materials, Mathletics and Chinese National Math Textbooks
Calculator policy:
Calculators may be used at the upper grades once the process of an operation is fully understood.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Dalton School: Balanced Literacy
Dalton School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Dalton School says:
The Dalton School has developed a very strong reading/literacy program beginning at the JK level in both Mandarin and English. In English, we have developed our reading program around the 5 Pillars of Reading: Phonetic Awareness, Phonemic Understanding, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension and Fluency. In Mandarin, recognition of characters begins at the JK level. We focus on simplified character development and the use of pinyin is introduced at the later SK/Grade 1 level. Guided reading and novel study is done in both languages throughout the elementary grades.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Dalton School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Dalton School: Equal balance
Dalton School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Dalton School says:
As well as a strong emphasis placed on reading development, our program exposes students to the different writing genres. Our writing program begins with understanding words, development of the different types of sentence writing leading to paragraph writing and finally to writing for purpose/audience. Development of strong spelling and grammar skills rounds out our literacy program. Mandarin writing skills focus on the development of proper character strokes and sequence. In elementary students write journals, reading responses and stories
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Science
Science approach at Dalton School: Equal Balance
Dalton School has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Our program develops a foundation for understanding the world through various scientific strands such as: biology, ecology, matter, experimentation, energy, weather, structures and mechanics. Collecting, sorting, comparing, observing and analyzing data help our young students to develop a scientific approach to the world. Exposure to scientific vocabulary, as well as experimentation, allows our students to build the skills needed for future scientific learning.
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 Dalton School: Traditional
Dalton School has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Dalton School says:
Students are introduced to the mechanics of reading in English and Mandarin at the JK/SK level. Once solid mechanics have been developed students progress to independent reading, group guided reading and finally to novel study discussion groups where emphasis is placed on inferential and evaluative skills. Students are introduced to a variety of genres within our programs Students coming out of our JK/ SK program enter the Elementary with solid reading skills in both languages. Those graduating from our elementary program are thoughtful, reflective readers who read for meaning and understanding.
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 Dalton School: Thematic
Dalton School has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Dalton School says:
Our Social Studies program is thematic in nature. At each grade level we incorporate the main aspects of the Ontario curriculum, while enriching the students' learning of world geography through stories, traditions, and holidays of the major cultures of the world.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Dalton School: Equal Balance
Dalton School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Dalton School says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Dalton School: Equal Balance
Dalton School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Dalton School says:
The Dalton School is a dual language program following a 50/50 model. Subject areas are taught in two languages; Mandarin and English. Mandarin is used as a medium for instruction rather than as a "subject" that is taught. All aspects of the language and culture are incorporated through our diverse, innovative curriculum. French and Spanish classes are offered as an extended day option. These classes are offered daily from 3:30-5:30 and run throughout the school year.
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 Dalton School: Equal Balance
Dalton School 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 Dalton School says:
Art exploration along with art appreciation are regularly incorporated into our program. We value student creativity and exploration, and encourage the use of a variety of mediums. Students are exposed to a wide range of activities such as dance, music, and drama in preparation for our yearly concert performances.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Dalton School: Medium integration
Dalton School has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Dalton School says:
Computers and technology are incorporated into everyday classroom activities. Students are introduced to word processing at the grade one level beginning with keyboarding skill development and simple document formatting. More advanced skills are introduced throughout the elementary grades. Internet safety is introduced as students begin to use the computers for research. A variety of online programs in English, Mandarin and Spanish are used for learning/skill development throughout all grade levels.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Dalton School says:
The Dalton School uses the SPARK Physical Education Curriculum. SPARK (Sports, Play, and Active Recreation for Kids) is a researched-based, public-health organization dedicated to creating, implementing and evaluating physical education principles that promote lifelong wellness. Instructional units are designed to develop students’ motor, cognitive, and social skills.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Dalton School: Not Ontario curriculum
Dalton 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:
Dalton School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Dalton School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Dalton School: Academic
Dalton School has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Dalton School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The Dalton School JK/SK dual language program offers children a solid foundation in language, math, social studies and social skill development in two languages. Throughout their day children are engaged in a variety of activities such as small group lessons, guided inquiry and play based centres. Students eagerly participate in activities that promote and reinforce the building blocks to all future learning success.
Language
Learn about The Dalton School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Dalton School is a bilingual / dual-immersion school with English, Mandarin as the primary language of instruction
| English - 50% | Mandarin - 50% | ||||||||
Language of enrolment include: English, Spanish, Mandarin
Language immersion include: Spanish immersion
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Dalton School: Standard-enriched
Dalton School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Dalton School says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
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 Dalton School says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Dalton School: Supportive
Dalton School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Dalton School says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What Dalton School says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Dalton School offers No support
Dalton School offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or 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 |
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
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 Dalton 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. 8, Dalton School students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.
| JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dalton School | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 35 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 59 mins |
What Dalton 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. 7 to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 8 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
The Dalton School offers 0 competitive sports and 3 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Martial Arts
- Running
- Soccer
Clubs offered
The Dalton School offers 1 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Foreign Language Club
What Dalton School says about their extracurricular activities:
- After School Programs such as Robotics, Chess, Piano, Art, Coding and much more!
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