North Star Montessori Elementary School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Summary
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at North Star: Montessori
North Star has a Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
Montessori offered:
Program | Offered |
---|---|
Montessori toddler | |
Casa | |
Elementary | |
Middle School | |
High School |
Approach
Focus |
---|
Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
What North Star says:
The Montessori materials allow the students to explore a concrete experience of abstract mathematics concepts. This work provides the student with solid underpinnings for conventional mathematical principles, providing a structured scope for abstract reasoning.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
North Star has the full scope of Montessori Materials for the Mathematics curriculum,
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
What North Star says:
The language program, which begins at age 3, is phonetically based. Sound games and other activities are played to establish phonological awareness. Once a student is familiar with all or most of the sounds, they begin to put them together to build words. When this base is strong, they move to learning blends, phonograms and sight words.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What North Star says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
What North Star says:
Writing comes before reading in Montessori. Through letter sound recognition, students use the Movable Alphabet to begin building words and sentences. Prior experience with the practical life exercises helps strengthen the hand and create habits for writing including the pincer grip, moving from let to right and the circular motion for cursive writing. Students are writing phonetic stream of consciousness long before spelling and grammar are formally taught.
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Science
Teaching approach:
Visit North Star's website for more detailed information.
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 North Star says:
Please visit North Star's website for more information
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
What North Star says:
Please visit North Star's website for more information.
Humanities and Social Sciences
What North Star says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What North Star says:
Please visit North Star's website for more information
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 North Star says:
Please visit North Star's website for more information.
Computers and Technology
What North Star says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What North Star says:
This information is not currently available.
Sex and health education
What North Star says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at North Star: Montessori
North Star has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
What North Star says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
This information is not currently available.
Montessori Approach
North Star Montessori Elementary School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
3 to 6 | 6 to 9 | 9 to 12 | – |
Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | – |
Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | – |
Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) | – |
Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
– | – | – | – |
Overall approach
Orthodox
39% of schools
Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.
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 North Star Montessori Elementary School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
North Star offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: This information is not currently available.
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at North Star: Student-paced
North Star has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
What North Star says about their curriculum pace:
Students are able to accelerate their studies in subject areas where they are more advanced and slow the pace in subject areas where they may need more time to master a skill or concept.
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 Star says about their flexible pacing:
The teachers carefully observe the students, record their progress, give further support and direction as necessary, and present the next level of martial /work, when the student is ready.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at North Star: Supportive
North Star has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What North Star says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What North Star says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
North Star offers No support
North Star offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
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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 |
Additional support
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
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 Star says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 7, North Star students perform an average of 30 mins of homework per night.
PS | K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
North Star | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 30 mins |
Site Average | 1 mins | 5 mins | 15 mins | 17 mins | 23 mins | 29 mins | 35 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins |
What North Star says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
---|---|
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 7 |
Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 7 |
Habits and behaviour reporting | K to Gr. 7 |
Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 7 |
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
North Star Montessori Elementary School offers 7 competitive sports and 0 recreational sports.
- Cycling
- Fencing
- Ice Skating
- Martial Arts
- Mountain biking
- Soccer
- Track & Field
Clubs offered
North Star Montessori Elementary School offers 1 clubs and extracurricular programs.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: North Star Montessori Elementary School
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