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Holy Name of Mary College School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Holy Name of Mary College School community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at HNMCS: Progressive
HNMCS has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
International curriculum & programs at HNMCS: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What HNMCS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
HNMCS provides an exemplary university preparatory programme that combines traditional curriculum with experiential learning experiences and integrates technology with 21st Century skill development. Driven by a student-centric focus on teaching and learning, we surround bright, curious minds with caring and supportive teachers who inspire a passion for learning.
Approach
| Focus | Religious-based |
|---|---|
| Academic | Christian (Roman Catholic) |
If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.
If you want to learn more about Catholic education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at HNMCS: Discovery Math
HNMCS has a Discovery Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Discovery Math?]What HNMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at HNMCS: Equal balance
HNMCS has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What HNMCS says:
Our program aims to develop a strong writing foundation that focuses on the improvement of grammatical and spelling skills, while allowing students to explore the writing process in a real world context; connecting literature, personal interest and current events into both formal and creative writing.
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Science
Science approach at HNMCS: Inquiry
HNMCS has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
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 HNMCS: Equal Balance
HNMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HNMCS says:
Students have the opportunity to be immersed in traditional literature and the importance of structure and literary devices in significant texts. HNMCS' Core Values are at the root of learning in the school and texts are selected that reflect larger social justice themes and allow students to make deeper connections and ask critical questions about the world while being engaged in meaningful texts and resources.
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 HNMCS: Core Knowledge
HNMCS has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What HNMCS says:
Our integrated programme allows historical and geographical information to come alive in a variety of ways, using an interdisciplinary approach to learning. Through the use of technology, the arts and language arts, students participate in meaningful learning opportunities that bring content to life in a relatable way.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at HNMCS: Equal Balance
HNMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HNMCS says:
By integrating the significance of big ideas and present day experience, students are engaged in meaningful lessons that bring the content in social science classes to life. Experiential lessons, simulations, field trips and wide range of apps and online programs, help to make these courses educational and engaging.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at HNMCS: Equal Balance
HNMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HNMCS says:
These courses balance the importance of language development and the need for a deeper understanding of language structures. Teachers work with students to develop a solid foundation of language acquisition skills and develop engaging lessons where students work alongside their peers in meaningful collaborative projects that develop a deeper understanding of the language being explored.
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 HNMCS: Creative
HNMCS 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 HNMCS says:
In Visual Art courses students are taught how to 'see'. They learn technical words and techniques to produce works which may be included for presentation in their senior years in a portfolio while applying to post-secondary programs. Assignments cover drawing, perspective, painting, printmaking, design, art history and Visual arts exams which are studio based. Each grade explores different mediums in the different disciplines.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at HNMCS: Heavy integration
HNMCS has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What HNMCS says:
Students are best served when the use of technology enhances the learning that takes place in the classroom. HNMCS embraces the use of technology throughout the curriculum, and our broad use of Smart Boards and interactive projectors in all classrooms recognizes the importance of technology in education. Our school is fully accessible through wireless connectivity, leverages on site servers and cloud based technologies, utilizes educational software and communities, promotes the safe use of social media, and offers a green room multimedia environment for study and exploration. All students are encouraged to bring their own device to school and engage in learning with their tablets, laptops or phones in a stimulating way. This results in the development of their expertise and competency and their development as self-directed users. Students have full access to our comprehensive technology lab and all teachers incorporate the use of technology in their teaching and assignments.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What HNMCS says:
The Holy Name of Mary College School Athletic Department provides opportunities for girls to pursue athletic excellence in a variety of sports while upholding Catholic core values and developing determination, resilience, balance, a sense of fair play, and pride in self and community. The athletic program at HNMCS is an integral part of the total growth experience. Student-athletes will mature physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. They will learn to take responsibility for personal growth by developing commitment, balance, and resilience as part of a strong and caring community. Pride in self and school, integrity and commitment are continually strengthened through participation on our teams. We believe that the life lessons learned through sport help to strengthen the Catholic values that will guide our students well into the future.
Religious Education
What HNMCS says:
HNMCS provides young women with the highest quality of education and a moral grounding in the Catholic faith, its traditions and worldview in order to enable them to realize their full potential as influential leaders of faith and community. The Religious Education programme enables girls to discover the truth, nurture the attitudes and develop the skills necessary to grow as young Catholics in a constantly changing society. The curriculum is designed to promote a Catholic identity that assists students in becoming life-long learners in relation to their faith within a multi-faceted global world. This plays an integral role in the learning experiences of students and complements the various faith-related outreach, social justice and peer ministry activities that take place within the instructional setting of the school community.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Calculus AB
Sex and health education
Approach to sex and health education:
HNMCS has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]What HNMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Holy Name of Mary College School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
HNMCS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at HNMCS: Accelerated
HNMCS has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What HNMCS says about their curriculum pace:
Our main curriculum pace is differentiated, with varied learning platforms, and integrates technology to tailor learning.
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 HNMCS says about their flexible pacing:
Our environment is student-centred and tailored to girls' learning
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at HNMCS: Rigorous
HNMCS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What HNMCS says about their academic culture:
Our main goal at HNMCS is to develop the whole person. Building a strong academic foundation allows our girls to become innovative thinkers who can draw on their wealth of knowledge and experience to tackle real world problems.
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: Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
What HNMCS says about their developmental priorities:
HNMCS promotes the importance of a balanced lifestyle that integrates a strong academic foundation based on our core values and key developmental priorities
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
HNMCS offers No support
HNMCS 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: 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 HNMCS says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, HNMCS students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HNMCS | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What HNMCS 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. 5 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 5 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 5 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 5 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 5 to Gr. 12 |
