Fieldstone School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at Fieldstone: Traditional
Fieldstone has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
International curriculum & programs at Fieldstone: Cambridge IGSCE, Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What Fieldstone says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Fieldstone Day School (FDS) - JK to Grade Eight: Cambridge Primary and Secondary I stages develop primary learners' skills and understanding of English, Science, and Mathematics. - Cambridge Primary and Secondary I Curriculum: English, Science, and Mathematics. - Core Knowledge: History and Geography. - Ontario Elementary Curriculum: Arts, Music, French, and Physical Education. Fieldstone King's College School (FKCS) - Grade Nine to Twelve: FKCS offers a unique curriculum blending Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels with Ontario courses. The combination of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and distinguished Cambridge qualifications gives our students a jump start on their university studies.
Approach
Focus | Special needs |
---|---|
Academic | Gifted |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Fieldstone: Traditional Math
Fieldstone has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What Fieldstone says:
Our math classes are structured such that advanced students can jump a grade (sometimes two) to ensure students are appropriately challenged. Additionally, our Cambridge programme offers progression tests and Checkpoint Examinations as a capstone evaluation ensuring that full mastery is achieved. For an additional challenge our Grade Seven and Eight students can begin preparing Cambridge IGCSE mathematics which is typically written by high school students. Our programme offers limitless challenges for even the most exceptional students in mathematics.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
We use a variety of texts and supplementary materials which are dependent on the course. Both Ontario and Cambridge-specific texts can be used in different courses.
Calculator policy:
Students are allowed to use graphing calculators as long as they do not have a Computer Algebra System.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Fieldstone: Phonics-intensive
Fieldstone has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Fieldstone says:
We have a balanced approach to literacy. We use Core Knowledge Language Acquisition for phonics and incorporate "Jolly Phonics" resources as additional learning anchors. Children are given many opportunities to practice working with letters and sounds in order to develop a good initial understanding of how language works. As they progress through the grades, their oral language, including speaking and listening develops. Our children hear good literature, both fiction and non-fiction and read aloud often. They are asked to summarize and retell what they have read and engage in many conversations with peers and teachers.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Fieldstone says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Fieldstone: Equal balance
Fieldstone has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Fieldstone says:
We believe in an equal balance between teaching the nuts and bolts of language and nourishing the children with a rich diet of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. This philosophy guides our approach to teaching writing. We place an emphasis on spelling, decoding skills, handwriting, punctuation, grammar and vocabulary all are embraced equally along with an opportunity to read rich and meaningful texts. This approach encourages and emphasizes creative expression.
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Science
Science approach at Fieldstone: Equal Balance
Fieldstone has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Our science programme provides students with a strong foundation for future studies while providing students with the chance to develop their analytical skills. Our aim is to provide at least one laboratory activity per week to support the theories learned throughout the week. In Cambridge tutorial, practice practical examinations are provided to prepare for practical examinations. Co-curricular activities are offered to our students to apply the theories from the classroom to the real world. These have included: Science Olympics Teams, Community Garden Club, Computer Programming Club and Environmental Club.
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 Fieldstone: Traditional
Fieldstone has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Fieldstone says:
Our English courses expose students to great works of literature, both from the Canadian canon and beyond. Students analyze a range of texts (plays, poetry, essays, short-stories, and novels) from various periods, countries, and cultures. They also create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. At all levels, we teach our students to confidently and coherently compose academic essays, as we recognize this to be a vital skill for many post-secondary ventures. Students graduate from our English programme with a firm grasp on reading challenging texts, analyzing these, and composing their own pieces of writing. Moreover, through their studies at Fieldstone, our students acquire a deep appreciation for the power of the written word.
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 Fieldstone: Core Knowledge
Fieldstone has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Fieldstone says:
Our social studies curriculum introduces children to a variety of people, places, and historical events in order to broaden their horizons. An early introduction to history and geography can foster a child's understanding of the cultures and landscapes beyond their local community. Appreciating the "wider world" helps students to prepare for being future global leaders.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Fieldstone: Perennialism
Fieldstone has a Perennialism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Pragmatism, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Perennialism?]What Fieldstone says:
Students in social sciences and humanities develop an awareness of critical issues in our complex, and diverse society. Our courses help to build understanding of individuals, communities, and nations both throughout history and in the present day. Through sustained practice, students develop their planning, processing, problem-solving, and decision making capabilities, often while exploring issues of deep personal and global significance. Discussions and assignments explore critical social, cultural, economic, technological, and environmental issues, helping students to be informed and engaged citizens.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Fieldstone: Communicative
Fieldstone has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What Fieldstone says:
Our language courses provide opportunities for students to learn and practice a new language, and to increase their appreciation for cultural and linguistic diversity in our increasingly globalized world. Students develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through creative and hands-on approaches. They also increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.
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 Fieldstone: Creative
Fieldstone 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 Fieldstone says:
Our courses focus on enabling students to create and present art works using a variety of traditional and emerging media and technologies. Our hands-on approach invites students to explore a range of materials, processes, and techniques and apply these to their own artistic projects. Reflection is also a key component of art-making. Students use the critical analysis process to critique art works and connect themes to the wider world. They are also encouraged to make connections between various works of art in personal, contemporary, historical, and cultural contexts.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Fieldstone: Medium integration
Fieldstone has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Fieldstone says:
Fieldstone believes that studies of computers and technology are relevant for all our students because they incorporate a broad range of transferable problem-solving skills and techniques, including logical thinking, creative design (our 3D printer is very popular), synthesis, and evaluation. These courses also teach useful skills in such areas as communication, time management, organization, and teamwork. Students live in a technologically-rich world, and courses in this field will provide them with the knowledge and skills to understand the underpinnings of current computer technology and prepare them for emerging technologies of the future.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Fieldstone says:
Fieldstone's approach to teaching Physical Education is to educate students on the importance of active living as a part of a healthy lifestyle. Students are given the skills necessary to participate in a variety of individual and team-based activities. Emphasis is placed on skill development, leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Students of all skill levels are able to participate in activities in a safe environment with positive messages about participation and the benefits of activity.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Fieldstone: Not Ontario curriculum
Fieldstone 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:
Fieldstone has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Fieldstone says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Fieldstone: Academic
Fieldstone has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
What Fieldstone says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The Fieldstone Global Knowledge curriculum was carefully designed to be rich in content and sequential in presentation. Kindergarten students are introduced to all academic disciplines, including French, History and Geography. Students experience an engaging and enduring subject matter that lays a foundation for their future schooling and instills a love of learning in them. The English, Math, and Science curriculum is administered following the Cambridge Primary guidelines and philosophies. This prepares students for the completion of the entire Cambridge programme.
Language
Learn about Fieldstone School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Fieldstone offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Mandarin
Online Learning
Fieldstone School's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
Fieldstone School offers online courses to students.
Course schedule
Period | Grades | Number of Courses | Start - End |
---|---|---|---|
Full year | 9 to 12 | 8 | Sep 04, 2023 — Jun 23, 2024 |
Course format
Type | Offered |
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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 |
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at Fieldstone: Student-paced
Fieldstone has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
What Fieldstone says about their curriculum pace:
Fieldstone offers students an enriched and challenging curriculum. The programme is individualized to meet the needs of each student. Students work in groups and individually depending on the tasks at hand.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
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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 Fieldstone says about their flexible pacing:
Students are grouped according to ability in the classroom. They all complete and study the same programme; however, assessments and expectations vary depending on ability.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at Fieldstone: Rigorous
Fieldstone has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
What Fieldstone says about their academic culture:
Fieldstone promotes a rich academic environment and celebrates academic performance. Students are provided with additional academic support in both curricula through the use of our after-school tutorial sessions. Students are also encouraged to demonstrate their academic abilities in math contests, science competitions, and after-school clubs.
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: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What Fieldstone says about their developmental priorities:
At Fieldstone, we prepare our students to be future global leaders. We encourage them to take risks, challenge themselves, and take an active role in the community. We cultivate and celebrate our students' individual strengths and successes. We ensure that they are supported throughout their time at Fieldstone and that they are prepared for further success at the post-secondary level.
Special needs support
What Fieldstone says about their special need support:
Students with a clinically-diagnosed learning disability are invited to apply. Our school will review psychological education reports, report cards, and any other reports to assess if our school is the right fit for the student. A 'Buddy Day' (half or full-day visit to our school) and assessments may be required before acceptance is offered. If enrolled, a Student Success Plan (SSP) will be developed to support the student. This plan will outline the students' strengths and needs and will include accommodations and modifications necessary to promote student achievement.
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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 |
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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 |
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Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
What Fieldstone says:
When one of our teachers has a concern about a child's learning, they first meet with our Head of School. Our Head of School will then work with the student both in the classroom and in a one-on-one setting in order to get a better idea of the student's learning needs. The teacher and Head of School will meet with parents to develop a student success plan that outlines individual learning goals and accommodations. If, after the plan has been implemented, it is believed that more support is needed, the school will recommend a psychological education assessment, occupational therapy support, or speech therapy.
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
In-class adaptations
Program | Offered |
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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 Fieldstone says about their gifted learner support:
Gifted learners require supports to ensure that learning remains relevant, engaging, and challenging. We draft a Student Success Plan (SSP) for each gifted student that outlines the student's stregths and needs so that they may be supported appropriately. Our "Global Perspectives" programme offers exceptional project-based learning opportunities, and our Cambridge curriculum offers gifted learners a more rigorous and challenging curriculum that they find exciting, stimulating, and rewarding.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Fieldstone students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
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Fieldstone | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins |
Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 17 mins | 23 mins | 29 mins | 35 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 59 mins | 76 mins | 88 mins | 104 mins | 113 mins |
What Fieldstone says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
---|---|
Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to SK |
Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
Habits and behaviour reporting | JK to SK |
Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 12 |
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
Fieldstone School offers 0 competitive sports and 11 recreational sports.
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Field Hockey
- Football
- Rugby
- Running
- Soccer
- Softball
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Fieldstone School offers 24 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What Fieldstone says about their extracurricular activities:
- Fieldstone students prepare and perform a Shakespeare play annually.
- There are extensive musical opportunities at Fieldstone.
- Our participatory, rather than competitive, approach to co-curricular activities encourages all students to engage in a rich and diverse school experience.
- The small size of our school allows students to have exceptional leadership opportunities and participate in an extensive range of activities within a supportive and nurturing social culture.
- Our high school students register for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award at no cost, and they are mentored closely as they work toward earning this internationally-recognized achievement.
- Our high school DECA (business leadership) Team competes at the provincial level.
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