Indirect Support:
Magnificent Minds ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Traditional
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their overall curriculum and approach:
We believe that in order to get our students to their final destination, it's essential to understand where they have come from. With a hands-on approach to student-directed inquiry and a data driven evaluation process, we provide a concrete account of student gains, areas of need and next steps for programming. Working from the Ministry of Education curriculum and additional curriculum documents chosen for each class based on the needs of its students (social curriculum, language-based curriculum, emotional awareness curriculum, life/leisure skills curriculum and so on) , our program targets student growth across over 20 domains of development. Our program pursues holistic development, which targets the whole body and whole mind. We work from a psycho-educational framework which enables our teachers to understand and motivate our students in a way they have often never experienced.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Equal Balance
Magnificent Minds Inc. has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
In the instruction of mathematics we strive to balance traditional and inquiry based methods. By teaching real life application of standard mathematical units we provide context and opportunities to practice skill development in a functional way.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Varies by grade. Please inquire.
Calculator policy:
No policy exists. In the event that calculators are needed, we will provide these to our students.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Phonics-intensive
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
We use a phonics-intensive approach to target the development of reading skills. In addition, we use systematic measures to address reading comprehension using leveled reading curriculum.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
We use a leveled reading curriculum to assess progress, and provide curriculum guidance.
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Writing
Writing approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Systematic approach
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Systematic approach?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
The teaching of foundational writing skills occurs with the use of a systematic procedures which addresses the core components of writing successfully. By learning the 'rules of writing' in a way that is concrete and quantifiable, our students develop the ability to plan, write, revise and publish various forms of written material.
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Science
Science approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Inquiry
Magnificent Minds Inc. has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
In science class, our students get busy 'doing'. We take curriculum strands and present information in a way that allows our students to generate hypotheses, make predictions and assess their findings.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc.: Traditional
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Our literature program begins by teaching foundational literary analysis skills, and develops into a more sophisticated application of these findings. Students are asked to make links between what they read and what they know; we provide our students with a framework for literary analysis which maximizes student success.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc.: Thematic
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Thematic social studies units allow our teachers to create engaging lessons at every grade level. By offering a balance between student-directed and teacher-directed learning, our students explore culture, communities, and more.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Equal Balance
Magnificent Minds Inc. has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What Magnificent Minds Inc. 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 Magnificent Minds Inc.: Creative
Magnificent Minds Inc. 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 Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Our arts-based programming reflects an appreciation for the creative process. Using arts-based modalities, our program targets the development of creativity, imagination, self confidence and an appreciate for the process of art-making (without any pressure to pursue perfection; it's all about the process). Students are encouraged to investigate a variety of forms of art, develop an appreciation for iconic artists and explore art-making in a way that is student-centered.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Medium integration
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Technology is used in the classroom to help deliver content and solidify understanding. IPads, and desktop computers are available for learners for research and computer literacy.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Our program upholds the ideal that an active body yields an active mind. We integrate daily physical activity into our classrooms through outdoor adventures, daily sports and recreation periods, bi-weekly yoga classes, and a focus on health and wellness training. In addition to physical activity, we put significant focus on nutrition and health and strive to teach stress management techniques throughout the day.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Not Ontario curriculum
Magnificent Minds Inc. 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:
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
Varies by individual education plan.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Play-based
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Our program blends play-based and academic instruction; we spark curiosity through play, teacher-directed instruction and opportunities for hands-on investigation. Our students develop learner readiness skills, which position them to thrive in a variety of future learning environment. With a multi-disciplinary approach, we pursue communication, social skills, cognitive development, scientific discovery, gross and fine motor skills. imagination building and artistic inquiry.
Language
Learn about Magnificent Minds's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Magnificent Minds Inc. offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Student-paced
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their curriculum pace:
Each student works towards individualized goals, as outline in their individualized education plan; we create student groupings in a way that allows us to pair students in classes with others who are best matched to their unique skill set.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their flexible pacing:
We offer split level classes as a way to maximize the effectiveness of ability-groupings.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Magnificent Minds Inc.: Supportive
Magnificent Minds Inc. has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their academic culture:
Academic excellence is a major driving force of our program, however, developing a love of learning, a deeply rooted sense of curiosity and the confidence and willingness to investigate play an equal part.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their developmental priorities:
Our holistic frameworks caters all areas of develop and appreciate the importance of each domain.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Magnificent Minds Inc. is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What Magnificent Minds Inc. says about their special need support:
We use a multi-disciplinary approach incorporating principles of emotion regulation, and anxiety/stress management. We provide ample behavioural supports within the classroom and offer a standard 1:4 student to teacher ratio, or the option of a 1:2 student to teacher ratio or a 1:1 student to teacher ratio as student need dictates. We offer 1:1 services to augment our school program.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc. says:
We are positioned to support a variety of learner profiles, including those with complex profiles or learning histories. We are positioned to support children with additional needs in a variety of ways, as stipulated by our comprehensive individualized education plans.
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 Magnificent Minds Inc. 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, Magnificent Minds Inc. students perform an average of 30 mins of homework per night.
| JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnificent Minds Inc. | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 36 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 58 mins |
What Magnificent Minds Inc. 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. 1 to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to SK |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 6 |
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
Magnificent Minds offers 0 competitive sports and 0 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
Clubs offered
Magnificent Minds offers 4 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Yoga
Art Club
Community Service
Drama Club
