Mississauga Christian Academy ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at MCA: Traditional
MCA has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
What MCA says about their overall curriculum and approach:
The MCA curriculum covers a wide range of subject areas that surpasses the standards set by the Ontario Ministry of Education. The subject areas taught by MCA's qualified teachers include: Mathematics French Music Art Physical Education Science Social Studies Language Bible Although, as professional educators it is important for us to know, understand and align to the Ontario curriculum standards in various subjects; ultimately we exist to bring glory to God. In so doing, we recognized that we have the distinct privilege to serve families and fulfill our purpose to educate students according to the revealed Word of God. Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum that contradicts the Word of God especially the new Health and Physical Education curriculum.
Approach
Focus | Religious-based |
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Academic | Christian (Baptist) |
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.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at MCA: Traditional Math
MCA has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What MCA says:
We use a traditional math curriculum by Purposeful Design- a publication of ACSI. The goal in the earlier years are to build a strong foundation using repetitions and drills. As they mature, they are introduced to more and more conceptual and applied understanding. The emphasis on foundation has shown results in math competitions and in Canadian Achievements Tests.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at MCA: Phonics-intensive
MCA has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What MCA says:
MCA uses a phonic-intensive program in the early age to teach our students the fundamentals needed to read. They have ample opportunity to read actual literature and join a reading buddy program with older students. Many students graduating from Kindergarten to grade 1 are already able to read full sentences and simple books with understanding.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at MCA: Systematic approach
MCA has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Systematic approach?]What MCA says:
Our writing program focuses on direct sentence, paragraph and essay/report construction strategies. Students are taught to plan, research, revise, and edit. Supplementary creative writing classes are also introduced to give students a chance to write about "real things" or stretch their imagination on point of view, audience, topic, and format.
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Science
Science approach at MCA: Equal Balance
MCA has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Mississauga Christian Academy offers an in-depth look at many scientific studies including but not limited to Biology, Chemistry, Physics and others.
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 MCA: Traditional
MCA has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Social Studies
Social Studies approach at MCA: Core Knowledge
MCA has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at MCA: Equal Balance
MCA has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at MCA: Audio-Lingual
MCA has an Audio-Lingual approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Communicative, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Audio-Lingual?]What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at MCA: Creative
MCA 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 MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at MCA: Medium integration
MCA has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What MCA says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What MCA says:
MCA’s trend to align with various Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines is primarily for updating the legal aspect of policies, forms, procedures and curricular standards that we find beneficial to independent school management, operation and best practices. Although, as professional educators it is important for us to know, understand and align to the Ontario curriculum standards in various subjects; ultimately we exist to bring glory to God. In so doing, we recognized that we have the distinct privilege to serve families and fulfill our purpose to educate students according to the revealed Word of God. Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum that contradicts the Word of God especially the new Health and Physical Education curriculum.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at MCA: Not Ontario curriculum
MCA 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:
MCA has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]MCA has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).[Show: About Traditional?]What MCA says:
Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. In our grade one to five, we will continue to use our science and health books as our "Sex Ed" curriculum. In our grades six through eight, we plan to use the Total Health: Choices for a Wining Lifestyle by Purposeful Design Publications
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at MCA: Academic
MCA has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
What MCA says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
MCA's Kindergarten program has a strong academic emphasis. Using the Abeka curriculum, students will learn their numbers and how to read and write at an early age to prepare them for the grades to come. Children begin learning cursive writing, learn piano through our interactive program and and also follow a Bible curriculum.
Language
Learn about Mississauga Christian Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
MCA offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at MCA: Standard-enriched
MCA has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
What MCA says about their curriculum pace:
Our curriculum is designed to meet and exceed that of the Ontario curriculum. Our grammar program is superior to the one offered in Ontario schools and our math is accelerated. We are exploring alignment to the IB program in some areas and are moving towards a project based learning style.
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 MCA says about their flexible pacing:
We seek to encourage early intervention for students who have been identified as an “exceptional pupil” (students who are not meeting or exceeding curriculum expectations); and monitor student progress and achievement through an Independent Education Plan (IEP).
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at MCA: Rigorous
MCA has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
What MCA says about their academic culture:
Historically, what parents appreciate the most about MCA is our completely Christian worldview and our high standards in academics for the students. The culture prepares students to truly aim to be the best that they can be in their studies.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What MCA says about their developmental priorities:
Although, we recognize the need to help students in all areas of development as a whole child, MCA's strength is primarily in the spiritual and intellectual development of the students. Chapel presentations, community volunteering and support is given for emotional/social development and a strong extra-curricular program allows development in all areas and a love for sports and physical training.
Special needs support
MCA offers Partial Integration
Students are placed in a separate special education class, but are strategically integrated into a regular classroom for certain periods.
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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 MCA says:
Resource teacher(s) are available to work through IEP's with the students' homeroom teacher(s) and to have one-on-one or small group times with students who require additional support.
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
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 MCA says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, MCA students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
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MCA | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 17 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 35 mins | 41 mins | 53 mins | 58 mins |
What MCA says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
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Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 1 to Gr. 8 |
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to Gr. 8 |
Academic achievement reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
Habits and behaviour reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 8 |
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
Mississauga Christian Academy offers 8 competitive sports and 2 recreational sports.
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Ice Skating
- Running
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Mississauga Christian Academy offers 10 clubs and extracurricular programs.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Mississauga Christian Academy
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