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Toronto French Montessori ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at French Montessori School: Montessori
French Montessori School has a Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
International curriculum & programs at French Montessori School: French National Curriculum
What French Montessori School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
TFMS is a private independent school which places emphasis on the four pillars of personal growth: spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical. This is gained through a strong dedication to academia and discipline. Students choose which “tasks” or activities interest them; these tasks centre around special Montessori manipulative apparatus that allow children to self-correct if needed. This allows the children to work independently. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence.
Montessori offered:
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus | Special needs | Religious-based |
|---|---|---|
| Academic | Gifted | Christian (Non-denominational) |
If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at French Montessori School: Equal Balance
French Montessori School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What French Montessori School says:
The math program utilizes a series of sequential steps that enable the child to learn from concrete materials while moving to abstraction. Lessons are given individually and in small groups. The child practices with the math material until he or she is confident with their level of understanding and is able to do the math abstractly. Practical real life applications of math are incorporated to reinforce understanding
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 French Montessori School: Balanced Literacy
French Montessori School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What French Montessori School says:
Reading is learned through the use of a variety of individually paced, phonetically based materials. The study of grammar and analysis of sentences is introduced through impressionistic lessons
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What French Montessori School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at French Montessori School: Equal balance
French Montessori School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What French Montessori School says:
Emphasis is placed on the development of strong skills in composition and creative writing. The study of grammar and analysis of sentences is introduced through impressionistic lessons. Research and critical thinking skills are encouraged as early as first grade. The language arts program also includes: Cursive hand writing, creative writing, phonics, word study, grammar, sentences, reading/book reviews, research/project presentations, oral presentations
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Science
Science approach at French Montessori School: Equal Balance
French Montessori School has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
The science curriculum is deeply integrated with the cultural studies curriculum and the presentation of the five Great lessons which center around themes of progress and inter-dependency: Life Science, Physical Science, Earth Science and Scientific Reasoning and Technology, Observation Skills
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 French Montessori School: Social Justice
French Montessori School has a Social Justice approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Social Justice?]What French Montessori School says:
Students are often asked to engage in class discussion and the goal is to teach students to think critically about what they read, while becoming intellectually and physically engaged in the social issues pertaining to their wider community
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 French Montessori School: Expanding Communities
French Montessori School has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What French Montessori School says:
The Social Studies curriculum includes History, Geography, and the cultures of the peoples and places of all the countries. Children learn geography through the use of interactive maps with increasing detail. The cultures of peoples of the world are learned through reading, research and discussion.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at French Montessori School: Pragmatism
French Montessori School has a Pragmatism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Pragmatism?]What French Montessori School says:
Emphasis on making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience and assignments centre around projects and tasks that have a "real-world" application/relevance. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at French Montessori School: Communicative
French Montessori School has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What French Montessori School says:
The Spanish curriculum begins in Grade 1 and goes through until the end of Grade 8. It is based on a communicative and task based approach which considers the children's interests learning process and language acquisition stage. Students work on their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and learn how to make connections with the language curriculum. Chinese-Mandarin classes are offered for students from Casa up to Grade 8 in an after school/extra-curricular activity format.
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 French Montessori School: Equal Balance
French Montessori School 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 French Montessori School says:
Promotes confidence, creativity, discovery and the joy of creating. The focus is upon the elements and principals of design.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at French Montessori School: Medium integration
French Montessori School has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What French Montessori School says:
The technology curriculum is taught to the students in the Junior High Grades (7&8). Students learn how to properly type, how to connect their lessons back to the use of technology, and in doing so, their skills are advanced beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside of the classroom.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What French Montessori School says:
Through a series of units, the physical education curriculum promotes an active and health life style. Students learn the fundamentals of sports including: Soccer, baseball, co-operative games, floor hockey, basketball, European Handball, Dodge Ball and Track and Field.
Religious Education
What French Montessori School says:
Religion classes are taught in French, from Grade 1 through to Grade 8. Students are taught about the fundamentals but are also given the opportunity to research and present any religion of their choice.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at French Montessori School: Not Ontario curriculum
French Montessori School 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:
French Montessori School has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]French Montessori School has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).[Show: About Traditional?]What French Montessori School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at French Montessori School: Montessori
French Montessori School has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What French Montessori School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori manipulative apparatus -- the essential features of these materials contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence.
Montessori Approach
Toronto French Montessori'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.' |
1 to 5 | 6 to 8 | 9 to 11 | 12 to 13 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
50% | 2% | 1% | 1% |
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 Toronto French Montessori's languages of instruction and enrolment.
French Montessori School is a trilingual school with English, French, Spanish as the primary language of instruction
| English - 40% | French - 50% | Spanish - 10% | |||||||
Language of enrolment include: English, French
Language immersion include: French immersion
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at French Montessori School: Accelerated
French Montessori School has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What French Montessori School says about their curriculum pace:
We follow the European French education standard, and provide an English and French Montessori learning environment.
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 French Montessori School says about their flexible pacing:
Children are directed and supervised by their directors/directress on all subject areas, including practical life, sensorial, language art, mathematics, geometry, science, music and physical education. Children are in a mixed age group that allows them to have positive cultural influence among themselves.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at French Montessori School: Rigorous
French Montessori School has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What French Montessori School says about their academic culture:
At Toronto French Montessori School, we have mix aged classrooms and students work independently. The teachers plan lessons accordingly to his/her academic level.and work with them individually or small group. Toronto French Montessori School places emphasis on the four pillars of personal growth: spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical. This will be gained through a strong dedication to academia and discipline.
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 French Montessori School says about their developmental priorities:
At Toronto French Montessori School, every student will excel and achieve his/her maximum potential in an atmosphere of kindness, guidance and nurturing, in order to acquire a love of lifelong learning, and to ensure success in the 21st century society.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
French Montessori School offers No support
French Montessori School 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 |
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
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 French Montessori School says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, French Montessori School students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Montessori School | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What French Montessori School 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 | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
