Pythagoras Academy ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at Pythagoras Academy: Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Pythagoras Academy has a Traditional, Reggio Emilia approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
Pythagoras Academy has a Reggio Emilia approach to supplementary curriculum.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
What Pythagoras Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
We use the curriculum that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving. As well our curriculum strongly supports the development of our students' imaginations and creativity. This is accomplished through cross-curriculum Fine Arts programming and challenges.
Approach
Focus |
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Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Pythagoras Academy: Equal Balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
At Pythagoras Academy we teach consistent, easy to learn algorithms emphasized in traditional math programs and we ask our students to apply these algorithms in complex, real world situations. In addition, we “throw situations at students” and ask them to use their critical thinking to apply possible solutions to these situations. Our students enjoy mathematics and see math as a way to express themselves and work collaboratively with others.
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 Pythagoras Academy: Balanced Literacy
Pythagoras Academy has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
We have a reading program that focuses on deep and accurate comprehension of fiction and non-fiction texts. We acknowledge and promote excellent reading subskills (including direct phonics instruction). Our work is informed by the master teacher, Adrianne Gear, as well as by Fountas & Pinnell and a wealth of Canadian & International Educators/Thinkers in the field of Literacy.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Pythagoras Academy: Equal balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
Our students learn to write by having plenty of time to write during writer’s workshops. Their writing is analyzed and this forms the basis for personalized “mini-lessons”, which are highly effective in supporting our students to improve and mature their written expression.
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Science
Science approach at Pythagoras Academy: Inquiry
Pythagoras Academy has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Our Inquiry-Based science program is cutting-edge, hands on and encourages both wonder and critical thinking. Our science program is orientated so that students will make their own discoveries and have the “aha” moments that make science so engaging and thought-provoking.
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 Pythagoras Academy: Equal Balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
Our students study historical texts and learn how these texts are still relevant to modern day social issues. In addition, they study contemporary texts and are engaged in critical thinking and creative thinking about how these works may suggest solutions and lines of thinking to address current-day challenges.
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 Pythagoras Academy: Core Knowledge
Pythagoras Academy has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
Students learn to “see the big picture” when looking at historical events. The program is structured to help students gain enduring understandings about big patterns that exist across civilizations and times.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Pythagoras Academy: Equal Balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Pythagoras Academy: Equal Balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Pythagoras Academy 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 Pythagoras Academy: Equal Balance
Pythagoras Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Pythagoras Academy: Medium integration
Pythagoras Academy has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Pythagoras Academy: British Columbia curriculum
Pythagoras Academy has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Pythagoras Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Pythagoras Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Pythagoras Academy: Reggio Emilia
Pythagoras Academy has a Reggio Emilia approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Academic approach).
What Pythagoras Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
By paying attention to individual and group interests, we create inquiries of studies that are engaging to students and result in enduring understandings. In practical terms, this means we listen to student's own questions and desire learning experiences that satisfied students' curiosity and sense of wonder.
Language
Learn about Pythagoras Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Pythagoras Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at Pythagoras Academy: Accelerated
Pythagoras Academy has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
What Pythagoras Academy says about their curriculum pace:
Our programs go above and beyond the BC curriculums in the areas of critical thinking, enduring understanding, communication skills (including public speaking), science, athletics, information technology, and Fine Arts.
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 Pythagoras Academy says about their flexible pacing:
Every student has a different learning style. Our teachers are nimble and responsive to students' learning needs and regularly differentiate instruction.
Academic Culture
What Pythagoras Academy says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority:
What Pythagoras Academy says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
Pythagoras Academy offers No support
Pythagoras Academy 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 |
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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 |
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.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
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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 |
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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 Pythagoras Academy says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
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
Pythagoras Academy offers 2 competitive sports and 3 recreational sports.
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Pythagoras Academy offers 15 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What Pythagoras Academy says about their extracurricular activities:
- Afterschool Public Speaking
- Afterschool Debating
- Afterschool Goh Ballet
- Afterschool Mandarin
- Afterschool Basketball
- Afterschool Robotics
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