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St. John's-Ravenscourt School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at SJR: Liberal Arts
SJR has a Liberal Arts approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts?]
International curriculum & programs at SJR: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What SJR says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Junior School (K - Grade 2) follows a play-based approach and Grades 3 to Grade 12 follow a balanced and inquiry-based approach to learning.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at SJR: Equal Balance
SJR has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SJR says:
The mathematics courses at SJR cover the content of the corresponding provincial courses, but include additional material and cover most topics in greater depth. We have three clearly held objectives: 1) Students should have a thorough mastery of basic skills. This is considered essential for success in higher mathematics and mathematics related courses. 2) Students should have an excellent understanding of ideas and concepts. It is important that they understand how various ideas are interrelated, and that they develop an intuitive feeling for the concepts that are being used. Memorizing how to solve a vast collection of “type problems” is not enough. 3) Students should be able to apply their skills and concepts to solve problems that they have not seen before. There is a strong emphasis on problem-solving at all levels, and there are a variety of mathematics competitions that all students can participate in each year.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Grade 10: Foundations and Pre-calculus Mathematics 10 Grade 11: Pearson Pre-calculus 11 Student Edition - myWorkText Grade 12: Pearson Pre-calculus 12 Student Edition - myWorkText
Calculator policy:
Students in Grades 9 through 12 require a scientific calculator for their Mathematics courses. Students in Grades 11 and 12 are encouraged to use a graphing calculator (a must for those taking AP courses) and the TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is preferred.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at SJR: Balanced Literacy
SJR has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What SJR says:
Language Arts instruction at St. John’s-Ravenscourt’s Junior School assists students to become adept, confident, fluent and creative communicators, who appreciate the power, usefulness and beauty of language. It is fundamentally important for students to become confident users of language and versatile thinkers, both in school and out.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What SJR says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at SJR: Equal balance
SJR has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What SJR says:
As students progress through school, their instruction increasingly enables them to acquire as many language conventions as possible. This acquisition cannot be left to time and chance. Given the interrelationships among the language arts, there is a need for fully integrated instruction characterized by coherence and continuity.
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Science
Science approach at SJR: Inquiry
SJR has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Emphasis is on understanding concepts and applying these in many different situations. For each topic, students begin with simple problems, move on to more complicated ones that involve several topics and finally they are expected to solve problems involving previously unseen situations.
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 SJR: Equal Balance
SJR has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SJR says:
The goal of the English program is to produce graduates who can speak and listen effectively, analyze literature with sophistication, write with forcefulness and precision, read with comprehension and insight and apply their skills with creativity. To these ends, a sequential program—focused on language and literature—has been devised to challenge students in English on a variety of levels.
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 SJR: Expanding Communities
SJR has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What SJR says:
The core concept of citizenship provides a focus for Social Studies learning across the Junior School grades. Social studies addresses various aspects of citizenship: - Role of Citizenship in Social Studies - Rationale for Citizenship Education - Active Democratic Citizenship in Canada - Canadian Citizenship for the Future - Citizenship in the Global Context - Environmental Citizenship
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at SJR: Equal Balance
SJR has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SJR says:
The social studies program is an integral component of the SJR curriculum. Through the two key disciplines of history and geography, students are encouraged to become critically aware and prepared to take an active role in confronting the challenges of the future.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at SJR: Equal Balance
SJR has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SJR says:
The study of French and Spanish, as any other second languages, can play an important role in the development of cross-cultural understanding. One of the main goals of the Language Department is to foster an acquisition of knowledge and an appreciation of both French and Spanish language and culture.
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 SJR: Equal Balance
SJR 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 SJR says:
Through the study of Drama, Art, and Music, our students learn not only to discover and develop their own creative expression and problem solving skills, but also to better understand the complex world in which we live. Studying the arts encompasses many different aspects of learning.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at SJR: Medium integration
SJR has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What SJR says:
Our students assume an active and productive role in the Information Age of the 21st century. To do so successfully they must become knowledgeable about, and comfortable with, computing devices and related information technologies.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What SJR says:
The vision of the program is to have all SJR students living physically active and healthy lifestyles. The program emphasizes physical, emotional and mental well-being, as well as life-long fitness.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Art History
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Psychology
- AP Statistics
- AP Studio Art: 2-D Design
- AP World History
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Chemistry
- AP Computer Science A
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP Government and Politics: Comparative
- AP Human Geography
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Microeconomics
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at SJR: Manitoba curriculum
SJR has a Manitoba curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Manitoba curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
SJR has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What SJR says:
Issues such as mental, physical, social and occupational health are discussed so that students develop the knowledge necessary to make responsible health decisions.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at SJR: Academic
SJR has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What SJR says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The overall approach to our Kindergarten program is both Academic and Play-based. We follow the Manitoba curriculum and expand on the learning through play-based opportunities.
Language
Learn about St. John's-Ravenscourt School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
SJR offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at SJR: Standard-enriched
SJR has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What SJR says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
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 SJR says about their flexible pacing:
SJR offers an Advanced Math program which allows for a streamed approach.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at SJR: Rigorous
SJR has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What SJR says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What SJR says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
SJR offers No support
SJR offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
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 SJR says:
SJR has student support services that are in place to assist students who develop learning difficulties while at our school and for those with mild or subclinical difficulties. Some diagnosed learning disabilities can be supported at the school.
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 SJR says about their gifted learner support:
Custom subject enrichment, curriculum compacting and guided independent study.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, SJR students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SJR | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 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 | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What SJR 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. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | K to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | K to Gr. 12 |
