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Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Montessori Learning: Progressive, Montessori
Montessori Learning has a Progressive, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive, Montessori?]
Montessori Learning has a Montessori approach to supplementary curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
What Montessori Learning says about their overall curriculum and approach:
MLCP follows the Montessori method of educating the child academically, socially and emotionally with the support of her specially created materials. Students of all ages are encouraged to learn at potential and are not limited by prescribed expectations. Students learn from teachers and other students supporting our motto of "Knowledge with Understanding"
Montessori program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
What Montessori Learning says:
The Montessori math materials are incredibly exciting in both presentation and execution. Discovery and implementation are encouraged and supported and the students enjoy hands on manipulation of quantities and qualities allowing both a tactile and intellectual understanding of each new concept presented.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Some traditional books are used as support for the Montessori curriculum and materials at the elementary level preparing the students for high school. Independent research, peer challenge and an annual cosmic plan serve together as academic launch pad.
Calculator policy:
Once a concept has been grasped in practice calculators are acknowledged as time savers.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Montessori Learning: Phonics-intensive
Montessori Learning has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Montessori Learning says:
MLCP supports the phonetic approach encouraged beautifully by the tactile, colorful Montessori material and objects so interesting to the young mind. With this approach, word attack skills are honed at a young age allowing for stronger reading at a younger age.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
-
Writing
Writing approach at Montessori Learning: Equal balance
Montessori Learning has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Montessori Learning says:
Students at all levels are encouraged to explore writing strategies appropriate to both ability and age. Each student is, through the systematic Montessori materials able to move, at their pace, towards development of interesting, well thought out and creative documentation.
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Science
Science approach at Montessori Learning: Equal Balance
Montessori Learning has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Curiosity is an instinct natural to students. Beginning with simple classroom experiments and growing into formalized scientific theory and substantiating evidence the student body develops through challenging instruction
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
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What Montessori Learning 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
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Montessori Learning says:
This information is not currently available.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Montessori Learning: Not Ontario curriculum
Montessori Learning 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:
Montessori Learning has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Montessori Learning says:
General information about all of the above is shared as candidly as possible with the children. As always, students are encouraged to take the discussions home and clearly understand their family values and beliefs. Unbiased support is always offered as needed.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Montessori Learning: Montessori
Montessori Learning has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What Montessori Learning says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
We, at MLCP, endeavour to provide an environment rich in both Montessori materials and her proven methodology and practice and in the CCEYA and HDLH foundations for learning. As such, our classrooms provide encouraging, supportive, individualized learning opportunities through the appealing Montessori materials and the carefully prepared environments.
Montessori Approach
Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Toddler | Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
18mths to 3 years | 3years to 6years | 6 to 9years | 12 to 14years | 9 to 12 year |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
1.5 hours | 2.5 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | – | – |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
– | – | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | – | – |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
– | – | – | – | – |
Overall approach
Moderately Orthodox
45% of schools
Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school uses teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Montessori Learning offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Montessori Learning: Student-paced
Montessori Learning has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Montessori Learning says about their curriculum pace:
Students progress through the curriculum with as much or as little support as is needed.. Those able to move ahead more quickly are encouraged to do so while those needing reinforcement are afforded the opportunity for internalization before being asked to move on.
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 Montessori Learning says about their flexible pacing:
Montessori stresses the importance of the combined age groups supporting and nurturing each other in reaching true potential
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Montessori Learning: Supportive
Montessori Learning has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Montessori Learning says about their academic culture:
MLCP promotes a supportive learning environment instilling a love of learning and an expectation of production at potential. Students are offered opportunities to be continually challenged and are emboldened to achieve at potential in each academic area. Montessori classrooms are created to encourage success offering each student what is needed for them to be the best person they can be academically, socially and as a valued community member.
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.
What Montessori Learning says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Montessori Learning offers No support
Montessori Learning offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
What Montessori Learning says about their special need support:
MLCP does not have specialists on site - here again we work with parents to decide what services are available to complement our programme and whether or not our school is a good place for their child to receive the best suited education for them. As such, we are obviously limited in the number of special needs students we can support within each age group.
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 Montessori Learning says:
We assess each student individually and decide, with parents, whether or not our services are the best suited for their child. Where we are able to support in a meaningful way plans and strategies for best results are established.
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 Montessori Learning says about their gifted learner support:
Montessori is a very individualized learning experience able to cater easily to the different academic needs of each student
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, Montessori Learning students perform an average of 30 mins of homework per night.
| NS | PS | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montessori Learning | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins |
| Site Average | 0 mins | 1 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What Montessori Learning 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 |
|---|---|
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8 |
