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Unisus School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Unisus (IB World) School has a Progressive, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive, International Baccalaureate?]
Unisus (IB World) School has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
International curriculum & programs at Unisus (IB World) School: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What Unisus (IB World) School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
SCHOOL PROFILE Unisus International School is an independent, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School serving students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. All students follow the IB curriculum. ABOUT UNISUS UNISUS School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School located in Summerland, British Columbia. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and/or the B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program. Our fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
International Baccalaureate program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Equal Balance
Unisus (IB World) School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
We stress problem-solving techniques but also use traditional approach to help solve math problems
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 Unisus (IB World) School: Balanced Literacy
Unisus (IB World) School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
Phonics is used in the lower grade while we use whole language reading program in the high school years.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Unisus (IB World) School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Equal balance
Unisus (IB World) School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
We focus on basic writing skills, as well as creative writing.
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Science
Science approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Inquiry
Unisus (IB World) School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
We used the IB framework to teach science, as well as the B.C. goverment curriculum.
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 Unisus (IB World) School: Equal Balance
Unisus (IB World) School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
We emphasise social justice but the curriculum also touches on traditional.
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 Unisus (IB World) School: Thematic
Unisus (IB World) School has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
Our IB PYP and MYP programs place an emphasis on theme-based units of inquiry learning. UNISUS International School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School is located in Summerland, British Columbia. With a fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Equal Balance
Unisus (IB World) School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
The IB framework emphasis on both perennialism and pragmatism learning
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Equal Balance
Unisus (IB World) School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
We offer Spanish language classes at senior levels and Spanish is also incorporated into junior-level classes. We have a full-time languages teacher on staff. The balanced approach is the most effective way to learn - we offer Spanish, starting in the early years.
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 Unisus (IB World) School: Creative
Unisus (IB World) School has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Unisus (IB World) School says:
Art, Dance and Drama are all components of our after-school program, CASE, and we have an on-staff part-time art teacher in the school. Art is an important everyday part of K-7 classes, as well. UNISUS is a community guided by three Learning and Teaching Goals: Academic Excellence: where students are continually challenged and excel in their learning within a curriculum rooted in rigorous standards and real-world applications Student Empowerment: where students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to embrace challenges and opportunities. Global Citizenship: where students commit to international mindedness through ethics, global perspectives, communication, leadership through service, and sustainability. These learning and teaching goals are based on research and intention and ensure that UNISUS students are “future ready” and best equipped for our rapidly changing, interdependent world.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Heavy integration
Unisus (IB World) School has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
At UNISUS School our goal is to develop responsible global citizens equipped with the critical thinking and technological literacy skills necessary to participate effectively in the worldwide community of learners. To that end, we offer an innovative Applied Design, Skills and Technologies (ADST) program. The ADST British Columbia curriculum is an experiential, hands-on program of learning through design and creation that includes skills and concepts from traditional and First Peoples practice; from the existing disciplines of Business Education, Information and Communications Technology, and Technology Education; and from new and emerging fields. It fosters the development of the skills and knowledge that will support students in developing practical, creative, and innovative responses to everyday needs and challenges. ADST learning at UNISUS can include 3D modelling, animation, Virtual Reality, product design, photography, stop-motion, computer graphic design, and more!
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Unisus (IB World) School says:
As the only independent private IB World school in Canada’s Okanagan Valley, we have a unique chance to ignite a passion and respect for outdoor exploration and recreation. Our Outdoor Education curriculum instills confidence, resilience, and life skills that students will carry beyond their time at UNISUS. Based in beautiful Summerland, British Columbia, the UNISUS outdoor education program has the immediate advantage of the renowned sunny Okanagan climate and four-season outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and ziplining. With direct access to some of the best hiking trails, lakes, and ski hills in the world, UNISUS students have the opportunity to acquire a lifelong appreciation for active living and unparalleled outdoor experiences. https://www.unisus.ca/outdoor-education
IB Diploma courses
Group 1 (Language A)
- English Literature SL
- English Literature HL
Group 2 (Language B)
- Spanish SL
- Spanish HL
- Spanish ab initio SL
- Mandarin ab initio SL
Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)
- Geography SL
- History HL
- Information Technology in a Global Society SL
- Psychology SL
Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
- Chemistry SL
- Chemistry HL
- Biology SL
- Biology HL
- Physics SL
- Design Technology SL
Group 5 (Mathematics)
- Mathematical Studies SL
- Mathematics SL
Group 6 (The Arts)
- Film SL
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Not British Columbia curriculum
Unisus (IB World) School has a Not British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not British Columbia curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Unisus (IB World) School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Unisus (IB World) School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Academic
Unisus (IB World) School has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Unisus (IB World) School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Unisus IB World School Junior Kindergarten At UNISUS, we believe that igniting a love for learning and a passion for making a positive impact starts at the beginning of each child’s education. The structured, play-based approach of our Early Years Program encourages the natural wonder and curiosity in each child and introduces the youngest members of our UNISUS community to a lifelong journey of learning. The Early Years Program is currently available for learners ages 3 - 5 years.
Language
Learn about Unisus School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Unisus (IB World) School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Student-paced
Unisus (IB World) School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What Unisus (IB World) School says about their curriculum pace:
Students are provided with extended periods of time for working, playing and learning in a variety of areas of interest, thus creating an atmosphere that extends learning and encourages in-depth studies. By adapting to the natural pace of the students we allow them to explore their interests to the fullest.
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 Unisus (IB World) School says about their flexible pacing:
Learning at Unisus is personalized. Each student's learning plan is carefully tailored to the need and interests of each student with lesson planning guided by IB and BC Curriculum. IB takes the approach to teaching and learning to the next level. We also offer a B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Unisus (IB World) School: Supportive
Unisus (IB World) School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Unisus (IB World) School says about their academic culture:
NURTURING A LOVE OF LEARNING AND CREATIVITY Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship. Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: children never get lost in the crowd. Every single student is known, accepted, encouraged, and supported to discover their voice, true self, and potential to shine. Small class sizes and dedicated IB teachers (most of whom have lived and taught overseas) mean your child will never be just a face in the crowd!
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 Unisus (IB World) School says about their developmental priorities:
With a vision to be a leader in global education and prepare students for an ever-changing world, UNISUS supports students to become globally-minded citizens, critical thinkers, and empowered to make a positive change in the world. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Unisus (IB World) School offers No support
Unisus (IB World) 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 |
What Unisus (IB World) School says:
Academic support for students takes place both in and out of the classroom. Unisus is proud of the Learning Center, where students can drop in for help with organization, homework completion, getting started on tasks, concept review, and support in extending or applying understanding. Some students with educational plans have regular learning support blocks. Our Learning Support Strategist supports students with dynamic learning abilities. Our educational assistant works primarily with students in the PYP program from grades K-5. Our ELL teacher supports our international students with English language acquisition. We are proud of our Unisus Wellness team!
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 Unisus (IB World) School says about their gifted learner support:
With a fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP), UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. With a vision to be a leader in global education and prepare students for an ever-changing world, UNISUS commits to supporting students to become globally-minded citizens, critical thinkers, and empower them to make a positive change in the world.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Unisus (IB World) School students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| PS | K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unisus (IB World) School | 0 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 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 |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What Unisus (IB World) 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 | Gr. 8 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | JK to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 7 |
