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North Point School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at North Point Schools: Progressive
North Point Schools has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What North Point Schools says about their overall curriculum and approach:
We value self-reliance, creativity, leadership, individuality, respect for self and others, a strong sense of curiosity, and an appreciation of the outdoors. Through an integrated approach, the North Point program focuses on Academics, Outdoor Exploration, Technology, Athletics, the Arts, Leadership and Community Service. We strive to motivate our boys to accomplish whatever they set out to do, in their own unique way. Ultimately, our goal is to unlock their desire to learn, while at North Point and throughout their lives.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at North Point Schools: Equal Balance
North Point Schools has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
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 North Point Schools: Balanced Literacy
North Point Schools has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What North Point Schools says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at North Point Schools: Process approach
North Point Schools has a Process approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Process approach?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
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Science
Science approach at North Point Schools: Inquiry
North Point Schools has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
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 North Point Schools: Traditional
North Point Schools has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
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 North Point Schools: Expanding Communities
North Point Schools has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at North Point Schools: Equal Balance
North Point Schools has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School supplements the Alberta Education curriculum and outcomes.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at North Point Schools: Audio-Lingual
North Point Schools has an Audio-Lingual approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Communicative, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Audio-Lingual?]What North Point Schools says:
Students can study French or Spanish starting in Grade 4.
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 North Point Schools: Creative
North Point Schools 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 North Point Schools says:
Students receive instruction from Fine Art experts throughout the year. Term 1 is focused on a general musicianship program through Choir. Visual Arts is covered in Term 2. Dramatic Arts closes out the year in Term 3. We host a Winter Concert to showcase Term 1 music and a June Arts showcase for Dramatic Arts.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at North Point Schools: Heavy integration
North Point Schools has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What North Point Schools says:
North Point School uses Blended Learning in most subject areas. Students receive a mix of direct instruction and the use of online platforms to progress through the curriculum.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What North Point Schools says:
North Point has a dedicated and substantial athletic and outdoor adventure component that is embedded into daily aspects of the curriculum. We believe that experience in the wilderness fosters courage, self-reliance, cooperation and resilience, while instilling a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world. Whether it is a challenging hike in the mountains, a river rafting journey or a ropes course, as students’ mature, risk and achievement are necessities in forming their identity and confidence.\n\nThe Athletics program at North Point is designed to improve our boys’ overall physical fitness levels and provide them with an opportunity to try a wide variety of individual and team sports. Daily physical activity is a core component of the North Point School model. We understand the importance that rigorous physical activity plays for the mind, body and spirit.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at North Point Schools: Alberta curriculum
North Point Schools has an Alberta curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Alberta curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
North Point Schools has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What North Point Schools says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at North Point Schools: Play-based
North Point Schools has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
What North Point Schools says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Our program includes music, games that focus age-appropriate skill development, building structures to develop fine motor skills, lots of physical activity, and fostering the development of social skills. Most studies show that boys are not ready for language development until the age of 6. Kindergarten at North Point is about developing a love of learning through experience. By touching, moving, listening, and observing, children will start to direct their own learning. The same philosophy of educating through hands on exploration in the older grades will be utilized in our kindergarten.
Language
Learn about North Point School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
North Point Schools offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at North Point Schools: Student-paced
North Point Schools has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What North Point Schools says about their curriculum pace:
We know that children do not learn all subjects at the same time, in the same way. North Point students will learn in a way and at a pace that comes naturally to them. There will be less focus on grade level groupings and more on individual progress.
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 North Point Schools says about their flexible pacing:
Mastery Learning is ensuring that a student has a complete understanding of a concept before moving on to a more complex concept. An incomplete understanding early on can have disastrous results later, especially in math.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at North Point Schools: Supportive
North Point Schools has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What North Point Schools says about their academic culture:
North Point is focused on helping boys achieve their highest academic standard possible to open options for them as they move to high school and on to post-secondary pursuits. Everything we do academically is in the pursuit of that opportunity for ALL of our students.
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 North Point Schools says about their developmental priorities:
We value self-reliance, creativity, leadership, individuality, respect for self and others, a strong sense of curiosity, and an appreciation of the outdoors. Through an integrated approach, our program at North Point will focus on Academics, Outdoor Exploration, Technology, Athletics, the Arts, Leadership and Community Service. We strive to motivate our boys to accomplish whatever they set out to do, in their own unique way. Ultimately, our goal is to unlock their desire to learn, while at North Point and throughout their lives.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
North Point Schools 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.
What North Point Schools says about their special need support:
There is no single perfect type of student for North Point. North Point School welcomes all boys who are curious, enthusiastic, and would benefit from an active learning environment. We recognize that each student comes with their own unique gifts and interests and that a diverse school community benefits everyone. We look for boys with a combination of skills, talents, interests and learning styles. We consider all of these elements when making our admissions decisions. Because we provide personalized learning experiences, we are an ideal educational environment for a wide range of personality types and learner profiles.
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 North Point Schools says:
North Point School welcomes all Boys who are curious, enthusiastic, and would benefit from an active learning environment. It is for students who want to achieve their personal best academically, while exploring and interacting with the world around them. The North Point program is designed for students of all academic ability. We recognize that each student comes with their own unique gifts and interests and that a diverse school community benefits everyone.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
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 North Point Schools says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 10, North Point Schools students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Point Schools | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 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 |
What North Point Schools 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 | K to Gr. 11 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 11 |
| Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 11 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | K to Gr. 11 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | K to Gr. 11 |
