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Kells Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Kells Academy: Traditional
Kells Academy has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Kells Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
While Kells Academy adheres to guidelines established by the Quebec Ministry of Education, it delivers programs with significantly greater flexibility, identifying individual student skill levels as the first step in the process. By doing so, we ensure that students work within their range of ability and remain enthused and motivated, yet still challenged. Our approach is a combination of both the traditional and progressive methods.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Kells Academy: Equal Balance
Kells Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kells Academy says:
While Kells Academy adheres to guidelines established by the Quebec Ministry of Education, it delivers mathematics programs with significantly greater flexibility, identifying individual student skill levels as the first step in the process. By doing so, we ensure that students work within their range of ability and remain enthused and motivated, yet still challenged. Each grade level allows students to choose advanced, regular or remedial programs, to progress at their own pace, and where possible, to upgrade their level.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Elementary: Nelson Mathematics, Math Makes Sense (cycle 2) plus complimentary materials Key Math, IXL Secondary: Math 3000, Math Help Services, Adapted Mind, IXL
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Kells Academy: Phonics-intensive
Kells Academy has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Kells Academy says:
Reading skills are developed using both research based teacher directed and online programs which approach reading in a systematic, sequential manner. In addition to phonics, phonemic awareness, word study, shared reading, guided reading, and literature study round out the program.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Kells Academy says:
Ongoing assessment, throughout the elementary years, allows us to continually monitor student progress and adjust programs to ensure success.
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Writing
Writing approach at Kells Academy: Equal balance
Kells Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Kells Academy says:
Our approach to writing features a balance of word study, explicit teaching of grammar, sentence and paragraph structure, as well as, the opportunity to practice writing for a purpose, proofreading and editing in Writer's Workshops. Students learn to express their thoughts in a cohesive, organized manner while exploring various genres of writing. The study of literary techniques, allows students to discover how various literary elements are used to create pieces of writing. Vocabulary study enhances the quality of writing, Students take pride in completed writing pieces that combine sound writing techniques and imaginative, creative and critical thought.
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Science
Science approach at Kells Academy: Inquiry
Kells Academy has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Beginning in the earliest grades, students are exposed to the scientific method with hands on opportunities for observation, experimentation and reflection. As they move forward through the grades, students are expected to question the scientific world, develop hypotheses, research, test and report and discuss findings using scientific vocabulary. Developing research skills and critical thinking through both group and independent projects is incorporated at all levels. Participation in the elementary Tomato Sphere Project, The Monarch Watch, nature trips, museum outings, workshops with professional scientists, environmental awareness activities, Earth Day celebration, and green school initiatives further enrich the program.
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 Kells Academy: Equal Balance
Kells Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kells Academy says:
The English program follows the guidelines of the Quebec Reform: Grades 7-11 COMPETENCIES Uses language to communicate and to learn Reads and listens to texts Produces spoken, written and media texts
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 Kells Academy: Core Knowledge
Kells Academy has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Kells Academy says:
A project-based learning approach is taken to the social studies program. Students in Cycle 1, learn about their own place in society and demonstrate knowledge in various ways. In Cycle 2 and 3, students compare and contrast geographical settings, significant people and historical events, to the present day. Flexible methods of demonstrating concept comprehension ensure that individual needs are met.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Kells Academy: Equal Balance
Kells Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kells Academy says:
In Grade 7 and 8 social sciences and Grade 11 Contemporary World the courses tend to be more pragmatic. In Grades 9 and 10, we lean more towards a perennialist approach due to the requirements of the Quebec Ministry of Education.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Kells Academy: Equal Balance
Kells Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kells Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
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 Kells Academy: Creative
Kells Academy 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 Kells Academy says:
Students of all ages are highly involved in our fine arts classes. Our music program allows students to look at various periods in history from a musical perspective while cultivating individual skills in a band ensemble. Performances include an integration of instrumental music, voice, dance and drama.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Kells Academy: Heavy integration
Kells Academy has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Kells Academy says:
At the elementary level, iPads and laptop computers are at the disposal of the students and teachers. At the High School iPads are mandatory for students in Grades 7-10 and laptops for Grade 11 students. These devices are used extensively in the classroom for research and productivity. Online programs and various apps are used for language support, mathematics and science. Class response systems allow teachers instant feedback of student results. Using video creation apps, teachers are able to flip their classes, sending home videos of lessons to be watched before attending classes.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Kells Academy says:
Kells seeks to ensure that students are active and developing healthy habits regarding physical activity and nutrition. A full array of sports, games, yoga and dance create a balanced program. Various annual special events such as the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart encourage an active lifestyle while raising funds for worthy causes.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Kells Academy: Quebec curriculum
Kells Academy has a Quebec curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Quebec curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Kells Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Kells Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Kells Academy: Academic
Kells Academy has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Kells Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Our program is fully rooted in active discovery with multi-sensory experiences fundamental to the development of speaking and listening skills, emergent reading and writing, number sense, social competence, creativity, curiosity and critical thinking. Technology literacy, essential to this age of technological advancement, is achieved with iPads and laptops, via online reading and math programs and apps used for creation and collaboration.
Language
Learn about Kells Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Kells Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Kells Academy: Student-paced
Kells Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Kells Academy says about their curriculum pace:
Students follow the MEES curriculum. In certain cases, accommodations to the program are offered, as well as an enriched curriculum for some students.
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 Kells Academy says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Kells Academy: Supportive
Kells Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Kells Academy says about their academic culture:
At Kells, flexibility is what distinguishes us from other schools. The curriculum provides the structure, yet its implementation is adaptable. We provide an innovative environment that celebrates uniqueness while offering a diversity of learning approaches, ensuring our students a learning experience that is rich, meaningful and challenging. We develop individualized programs, allowing students to work within their comfort zone, which may be above, below, or at grade level.
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: Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
What Kells Academy says about their developmental priorities:
At Kells, we hope to shape autonomous, motivated, confident, self-directed, life long learners able to take on intellectual challenges. Socially and environmentally responsible, our students are involved in many local and global initiatives. As members of Peaceful Schools International, they are respectful and empathetic citizens. With many opportunities to be physically active in sports, dance and yoga, students learn the importance of healthy living..
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Kells Academy offers Resource Assistance
Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day, and periodically receive break-out support (individually or in small groups) within the classroom from a qualified special education teacher.
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 Kells Academy says:
Students with diagnosed learning disabilities enter a supportive, flexible and stimulating learning environment which addresses individual needs. Student progress is monitored closely through ongoing observation and assessment. An individual learning plan is developed to target specific learning goals so students may learn at their own level and pace. Additional support in our resource room is provided by our learning specialist at the elementary level. Engaging and innovative strategic programs are used to develop skills in reading and math, and to assist English language learners.
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 Kells Academy 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, Kells Academy students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kells Academy | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 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 Kells Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:
Lessons at night, homework by day is the best way to describe the flipped classroom. Flipping incorporates different learning styles in a short video that allows diverse learners to become proactive in their own learning experiences outside of the classroom.
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. 11 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 11 |
| Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 11 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | K to Gr. 11 |
