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Hear directly from Unionville College community as they share insights into the Academics.
UC has a Traditional, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Unionville College offers a challenging academic environment coupled with a balanced, whole-child approach to education for students in grades 1 to 8. Students master curricula that is one year ahead their current grade level, with the support of caring and enthusiastic teachers who cater to individual talents and needs. Coursework and extra-curricular learning is informed by a project-based, hands-on approach. Students explore diverse topics, from international relations, financial literacy, robotics, and 3-D printing to the performance of instrumental jazz at an advanced level. Our iPad program and other cutting-edge technologies are hallmarks of our school, provided in our state-of-the art facility which includes a top-rate, professionally equipped theatre for school performances. Personalized attention, committed teachers and administrative accountability inspires students to strive for excellence. Every parent is heard, and every student at Unionville College is guaranteed a learning experience that is beyond the Ontario curriculum -- a learning experience unlike any other.
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Gifted |
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
For the past 11 years, UMS students have surpassed achievement expectations for every grade in mathematics, as measured by the CAT-4 Canadian Achievement Test and reported by Psychometrics Canada Ltd. In 2015, our grade 7 and 8 students participated in the Gauss Contest, set by the Centre for Education at the University of Waterloo. Nearly one-quarter of our contest participants earned scores of 89% or higher. For the Canadian National Mathematics League, set by the University of Windsor, our grade 6 and 7 students placed second and third, respectively, nationally. Five of our students earned spots in the top twenty students nationwide. Overall, our grade 6 and 7 students earned second place out of more than 200 schools, and our grade 8 students finished 13th out of 164 participating schools.
Grade 1 to 7 use My Math/Glencoe Math, an innovative, research-based numeracy program. Our Grade 8's use Nelson Principles of Mathematics, which is an academic Grade 9 textbook in line with our year-ahead program.
Students are encouraged to use mental math until intermediate levels where graphing is necessary.
UC has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
The Unionville Montessori School Elementary program continues the intensive early reading program in which students are immersed in the Casa program. Using dynamic classroom resources and learning tools, our teachers create benchmark reading levels and monitor individual progress. Printable books, or projected interactive books on the Smartboard, are supplemented with worksheets and activity-based lessons, along with a host of interactive resources and develop key reading skills. These resources include Headsprout, Learning A - Z and Raz Kids. Levelled books ensure success in the classroom with developmentally appropriate books at 27 different reading levels. Students as early as grade 1 are encouraged to use iPad apps to supplement the text-based reading programs, and improve learning with the addition of colour, images, graphics and games. The balanced literacy program emphasizes the instruction of grammar and vocabulary in the context of a narrative or text, as well as a phonetic approach.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
UMS students write the CAT-4, the Ontario Writing Assessment and Comprehension Attitude Strategies Interests.
UC has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
The balanced literacy program further extends the Montessori methods so that phonics, vocabulary and constructing meaning is integrated into the creation of writing skills. Our advanced academic program for the early grades is founded upon a personalized approach to learning. Programs are individually placed, and a resource teacher is available to support children who are developing writing skills. Students grade 3 and up study novels and write answers to comprehension questions based on the text. Students in the higher grades study grammar and vocabulary using interactive, online software and workbooks. They are also are instructed in essay writing and speech writing to prepare for our annual Speech Festival. Many students in grade 8 are reading and writing at a level that is suited for an advanced academic course in a high-school setting. All students in need of resource support receive individualized instruction as needed.
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
Science is a vital curriculum area at Unionville Montessori School, where students from grades 1 to 8 have access to a fully-equipped, top-tier science lab. In the lab, and in classes, students in primary, junior and intermediate levels experience science through inquiry-based learning, where they can understand the scientific facts, theories and concepts through hands-on experiments and activities. Students at UMS receive more instruction in math and science than the norm, as part of the school-wide focus on an integrated, cross-curricular STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) focus. Students who excel in science develop a strong ability to think critically, and a talent for creative thought and excellent communication and collaborative skills.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Evolution as consensus theory | |
| Evolution as one of many equally viable theories | |
| Evolution is not taught |
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Biology | |
| Chemistry | |
| Ecology | |
| Geology | |
| Meteorology | |
| Physics | |
| Physiology | |
| Zoology |
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
UMS pupils work at a grade-ahead level in Language Arts. Students in the primary grades work with concepts such as the elements of narratives, the features of various literary genres such as the "legend," or "fable," and grasp abstract concepts such as the main character or hero. Beginning in grade 3, students complete a novel study, wherein they are encouraged to make inferences and to prove their argument in traditional literary critique form. Senior students work with complex texts from various cultures and time periods, and are encouraged to explore fundamental themes and to apply literary terms. In grades 1 to 8, literary study is founded upon our character education program whereby students are encouraged to reflect upon honesty, self-discipline, integrity and personal responsibility, and to explore their own values and the values and the customs of diverse cultures.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Canadian lit | |
| American lit | |
| European (continental) lit | |
| World (non-Western) lit | |
| English lit | |
| Ancient lit |
UC has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
Social Studies for grades 1 to 6 takes a thematic approach and encourages depth and breadth through independent study projects on various topics and themes. Our UMS curriculum highlights Canadian geography and history for grades 1 to 6, but also extends and enriches those topics with a global view and context. Teachers plan tangential learning activities and challenges, and also incorporate the use of SMART Boards, media-based resources and iPads to teach both process and content. Social Studies often leads to research projects and learning that emphasizes higher-order thinking. In addition, students in grades 5 to 8 participate in annual class trips to destinations that reinforce classroom learning, including Niagara Falls, Ottawa and Quebec. UMS also frequently sponsors school trips to destinations in the United States, such as New York City, and in Europe, with a bi-annual trip to Paris, France.
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
The UMS approach to grade 7 and 8 history and geography extends and enriches the commonly studied Ontario curriculum with a global view and international context. Teachers plan tangential learning activities and challenges, and also incorporate the use of SMART Boards, media-based resources and iPads to teach both process and content. Social studies often leads to research-based projects and learning that emphasizes higher-order thinking. UMS also frequently sponsors school trips to destinations in the United States, such as New York City, and in Europe, with a bi-annual trip to Paris, France.
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
Students are UMS are progressively introduced to French vocabulary beginning as early as age 2, in our Pre-Casa and Casa program. Formal instruction in French begins in grade 1, giving elementary students several years of head start in French. During French lessons, students learn vocabulary and develop conversational skills, using a fun and interactive approach involving stories, props, music, games and activities. The main resource for French instruction is AIM -- Accelerative Integrated Method -- a system which uses hand gestures to represent and mimic sounds and words. This is a popular movement-based approach to learning that is especially helpful for active, high-energy students that enjoy expressing themselves through large-muscle movement (kinaesthetic learning).
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Chinese-Cantonese | |
| Chinese-Mandarin | |
| French | |
| German | |
| Greek | |
| Italian | |
| Japanese | |
| Hebrew | |
| Latin | |
| Russian | |
| Spanish | |
| ESL |
UC has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Acting | |
| Dance | |
| Drama/Theatre | |
| Graphic Design | |
| Music | |
| Visual Arts |
| Expressive | |
| Disciplined |
Inspired by the value of the arts, it is our goal to not only enhance the artistic abilities of our students but also to develop an awareness and appreciation of various art forms. Visual arts allows students to unleash a wave of talent through different media including drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional formats.
UC has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
One of the emerging trends has been the introduction of advanced technological resources within the classroom. UMS has embraced this idea and is proactively taking a measured approach towards incorporating innovative methods of learning, changing the face of the classroom environment. Our mandate, “Excellence in Education,” is the driving force behind this initiative. Education must be forward-leaning, recognizing that the “real world” for which students are being prepared is dynamic, with exponential changes especially in technology. Innovation is at the forefront of our priorities, in order to give your child the necessary skills to grow as a lifelong learner.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Computer science | |
| Robotics | |
| Web design |
Regular exercise is essential to children’s overall health and positive development. Students participate in formal Physical Education classes with trained teachers, as well as in a wide variety of intramural and competitive sports teams. Our competitive teams compete against other local schools. Physical Education classes follow the Ontario Health and Physical Education Association curriculum. In these classes, not only do the students have the opportunity to be physically active while learning important skills, but they also work on developing their self-esteem, learn about good sportsmanship, and develop positive exercise habits while having a great deal of fun. Our Elementary programme also offers students many sports teams, such as basketball, volleyball, golf, swimming, soccer, cross country, floor hockey, and many more.
UC has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
This information is not currently available.
UC has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
The Montessori approach is a student-centered and student-directed teaching method that is offered within a prepared environment, which fosters exploration, experimentation, creativity, and respect. Our Casa programme builds on the foundation of the Montessori Method with extremely popular enhancements and additional learning opportunities for our students in music, science, visual and dramatic arts, and more.
Unionville College's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Toddler | Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | High | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
– | 2.5 to 6 | – | – | – | – |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
– | 2 hours | – | – | – | – |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
– | Never (Orthodox) | – | – | – | – |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
– | Never (Orthodox) | – | – | – | – |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
– | 10% | – | – | – | – |
Moderately Non-Orthodox
21% of schools
Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This school uses teaching assistants.
TAs are found in every class and are an essential and integral part of the classroom teaching team. They support the lead Montessori Teacher and students, help with programming, teaching, supervision and communication with families.
Learn about Unionville College's languages of instruction and enrolment.
UC has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
Our Elementary programme implements the Ontario Curriculum at an advanced level with low student/teacher ratios, small class sizes and highly-trained educators. The advanced curriculum means that students are learning a grade ahead in the subject areas of language, math, science and social studies.
| 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 |
In our Montessori classrooms students are encouraged to work independently, as well as in small groups. As each child is an individual, they are encouraged to learn at their own pace, following their own personalized programming while being guided and monitored by our specially trained and nurturing teachers.
UC has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
Our belief is that children are very capable and given the right opportunity and environment can excel academically at a very young age. Our Montessori classrooms provide students with the perfect environment to encourage development of essential skills as they develop a strong academic foundation. Students are challenged and encouraged as they progress through the enriched Montessori curriculum, with an emphasis on language and math skills development, before entering our elementary program, which follows the Ontario curriculum at a year-ahead.
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Character Education is an important cornerstone of our curriculum. While we encourage our students to develop independent thinking and creativity, we also encourage respect and integrity and place emphasis on the value of teamwork, kindness and compassion. All of our students are encouraged to be good citizens, in school, and out in the world.
Students are placed in a separate special education class, but are strategically integrated into a regular classroom for certain periods.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
Students in a Montessori classroom learn at their own pace following an individualized programme. This type of environment naturally provides accommodation for students who may have difficulties with some areas of learning as students are able to move at their own pace through the curriculum with the support and guidance of our specially trained teachers. Activities and materials that students can manipulate hands-on before moving to more abstract learning, encourage children to develop a more thorough understanding of what they are learning, encouraging greater success.
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
| 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) |
With a specialist teaching staff, our Gifted and Talented (G.A.T.E.) students are supported with in-depth learning, a greater emphasis on independent study, sophisticated discussion and cross-curricular integration. Our G.A.T.E. students will be immersed in higher level creative thinking, problem solving and research skills. Multiple teaching strategies are employed, including learning centres, blended programs, acceleration and independent study. The instructional planning makes content more abstract, complex and interrelated.
In grade Gr. 10, UC students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UC | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 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 | 75 mins | 84 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
This information is not currently available.
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
OUR KIDS REPORT: Unionville College