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Phoenix Private Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Phoenix Private Academy community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Phoenix: Traditional
Phoenix has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Phoenix says about their overall curriculum and approach:
At Phoenix, we follow the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. Lessons are delivered in small groups. The core subjects of Reading, Comprehension, Math, Writing and Spelling are taught through Direct Instruction. The direct instruction program is implemented to provide learning, repetition, ongoing practice and mastery of key skills. Curriculum accommodations and modifications are introduced to enhance learning. To promote socialization and character development, our students follow a Social Skills course of study which teaches self-regulation, stress management, effective problem solving, organizational skills and respect of self and others. A full Arts education includes dance, drama, music, visual arts classes and French language. Multi-sensory learning to address our students' unique needs. Hands on activities, group projects, field trips and science experiments help learning come alive. Our staff consistently use experiential, environmental and differentiated teaching approaches. Students enjoy weekly swimming, yoga, gym and daily physical activities. Our staff integrates Applied Behavioural Analysis techniques, always cognizant of the student's emotional, physical, and environmental needs. A variety of summative and formative evaluations are on-going and help to modify programs.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Phoenix: Traditional Math
Phoenix has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What Phoenix says:
Math is taught through direct instruction to ensure systematic repetition, practice and thorough mastery of key math skills. Enriching activities help students investigate all six math strands including: Number Sense/Numeration, Measurement, Patterning/Algebra, Geometry/Spatial Sense, Data Management/Probability and Financial Literacy.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
Students are given math tools (ie. number lines, counters, coins, calculators) if needed to help them acquire new math skills and succeed.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Phoenix: Phonics-intensive
Phoenix has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Phoenix says:
Reading is taught through direct instruction to ensure systematic repetition, practice and thorough mastery of key reading skills. In addition, a home reading program ensures continuous practice. Independent reading levels are assessed prior to participation in the program. Students also study Media Literacy that encourages students to think critically.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Phoenix says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Phoenix: Equal balance
Phoenix has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Phoenix says:
In the primary class, students are encouraged to brainstorm ideas and then transform their thoughts to print. Students use word banks, writing frames and graphic organizers to help them generate and organize their writings. The writing process of prewriting, drafting, revising and editing is introduced. At the junior and intermediate levels, students follow a direct instruction approach to writing and are given continuous feedback on how to edit and improve their writing skills.
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Science
Science approach at Phoenix: Equal Balance
Phoenix has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Students study the Ontario Ministry of Education's Science and Technology curriculum through lectures and fun filled investigations. Hands on experiments help children discover scientific concepts and solidify their understanding.
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 Phoenix: Traditional
Phoenix has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Phoenix says:
Literature studies are conducted as part of the Reading Program. Students discuss story elements and develop an appreciation for a wide variety of reading genres. At the Junior and Intermediate levels, students complete reflections on their readings.
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 Phoenix: Expanding Communities
Phoenix has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What Phoenix says:
Students study the Ontario Ministry of Education's Social Studies curriculum through lectures and fun filled activities. Group projects help students develop a deeper understanding of the content.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Phoenix: Equal Balance
Phoenix has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Phoenix says:
Students follow the Ontario Ministry of Education's History and Geography curriculum in Grades 7 and 8. Through lectures, discussions, research and group projects students learn key concepts and skills.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Phoenix: Communicative
Phoenix has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What Phoenix says:
Students in the Primary, Junior and Intermediate classes have weekly French language instruction.
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 Phoenix: Creative
Phoenix 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 Phoenix says:
Students study the Ontario Ministry of Education's Arts curriculum through demonstration and creative activities. In dance, students move creatively and learn about different dance styles. In drama, students learn different dramatic elements through fun activities and improvisation. Drama activities encourage strong social interactions. In music, students learn basic elements of music theory. Students learn to sing in unison and play musical instruments. In visual arts, students learn about the elements and principles of design, art movements, famous artists and art techniques.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Phoenix: Medium integration
Phoenix has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Phoenix says:
Students integrate technology in a variety of subjects for research, creating projects and power point presentations. Chromebooks and iPads are provided for student use throughout the school day. Students follow coding classes once a week.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Phoenix says:
Students follow the Ontario Ministry of Education's Health and Physical Education curriculum. Students participate in physical activities in the classroom, in the gym and outdoors. They learn about the benefits of an active lifestyle that will lead to lifelong health and well-being. In addition, students participate in daily physical activities, and weekly yoga and swimming classes that have beneficial effects on both body and mind.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Phoenix: Ontario curriculum
Phoenix has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Phoenix has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Phoenix says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Phoenix: Academic
Phoenix has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Phoenix says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The Kindergarten Class maintains a very low, 1:34 adult-student ratio with EA support available at an additional cost. This program is designed for children who are school aged but are not ready to participate in a typical classroom setting or still have ABLLS-R programs to acquire . Students in the Kindergarten Class participate each day in fun educational activities that promote social emotional learning, gross and fine motor development, and language development. Early math and literacy will also be studied. The Kindergarten Class is available as a half or full day program where students spend the remainder of the day working on both academic and IBI activities.
Language
Learn about Phoenix Private Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Phoenix offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French
Online Learning
Phoenix Private 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.
Phoenix Private Academy offers online courses to students.
What Phoenix says about their course flexibility:
Tutoring is available online if needed. Our students may also enrol in online high school courses, supported by Phoenix staff.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
What Phoenix says about their academic support and services:
Student progress tracker: Assessment is a critical part of curriculum delivery. Student progress is continually assessed to ensure the understanding and mastery of skills and concepts.
Additional support: Tutoring is available at an additional cost.
Special needs support: We delivery our core subjects through evidence based Direct Instruction which is specifically designed to help special students learn.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Phoenix: Student-paced
Phoenix has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Phoenix says about their curriculum pace:
Students are assessed upon entry to school and work at a level that suits their needs. Groups are flexible and interchangeable within grade levels. Skills are practiced until fully mastered. Students are continually challenged to work to the best of their abilities.
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 Phoenix says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Phoenix: Supportive
Phoenix has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Phoenix says about their academic culture:
We cater to students with a range of exceptionalities and provide a multi team approach to meet our student's unique needs. Specialized teachers, educational assistants, instructional therapists, senior therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, speech language therapists and counsellors help students meet their social-emotional, academic and physical goals. Individual goals are set and students are supported as they learn the core subjects, social skills, physical education and the Arts. Our caring and supportive staff helps each individual student rise to their full potential.
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 Phoenix says about their developmental priorities:
At Phoenix Private Academy we provide a positive, supportive environment to help our students become responsible citizens. Through the use of various activities, consistent reinforcement and clear expectations students develop self-esteem and confidence. We increase their social-emotional development and academic skills to help prepare them for a fully successful integration back into a mainstream educational setting.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Phoenix 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 Phoenix says:
At Phoenix Private Academy, we cater to students with exceptionalities, including learning difficulties. Our supportive staff and research based curriculum provides strategies, accommodations and modifications necessary to help students learn key skills and concepts.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
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 Phoenix 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, Phoenix students perform an average of 30 mins of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What Phoenix 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 | K to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | K to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | K to Gr. 8 |
