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University of Toronto Schools ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at UTS: Liberal Arts
UTS has a Liberal Arts approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts?]
What UTS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
UTS provides an environment for high-achieving students to realize their potential through its enriched curriculum (including AP courses) and wide range of co-curricular opportunities. UTS graduates take initiative and innovate as socially-responsible global citizens.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Gifted |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at UTS: Equal Balance
UTS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What UTS says:
Through study of mathematics at UTS, students will develop the mathematical concepts and skills required of knowledgeable citizens and become prepared for successful studies in university. There is a dual emphasis on application of mathematics to real world applications such as personal finance, statistics and computer science and recognition of the beauty of pattern, shape and design inherent in pure mathematics. In addition to developing computational skills, students will develop their critical thinking abilities and reasoning techniques through study of problem-solving involving numerical analysis, algebra and geometry. For those students showing a keen interest and/or extraordinary mathematical ability, the department sponsors a student-run mathematics club, and encourages participation in local, provincial, national and international mathematical contests.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
No textbooks used for math courses.
Calculator policy:
n/a
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Science
Science approach at UTS: Equal Balance
UTS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Studies in General Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are offered at the academic and university preparation levels in order to prepare students for University. The aim of these courses is to involve students in the process and philosophy of science while learning the factual knowledge relevant to the courses. Courses will include laboratory investigations, discussions, seminars, and research projects. In the senior grades it may be possible for students to undertake more extensive investigations.
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 UTS: Equal Balance
UTS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What UTS says:
In our study of literature and language at UTS, the principal objective is the development of an inquiring and perceptive mind. Clarity, depth, and creativity in oral and written expression are valued. Through reading, speaking, listening, writing, and the exploration of various media, students will be encouraged to reflect upon the nature of the human experience.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at UTS: Equal Balance
UTS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What UTS says:
The school’s Vision and Mission calls upon students to become socially responsible global citizens. Social responsibility and global citizenship are the core subject matter of UTS’ offerings in Canadian and World Studies which seek to build, by reflecting upon the past, understanding the present, and planning for the future, competencies in the skills, knowledge, and attitudes we require to make effective decisions fully aware of their implications for ourselves and the wider communities of which we are a part. At the senior level, Canadian and World Studies offers a number of courses in specialized disciplines, including Civics, Law, Politics, Economics and Philosophy. This specialization exposes students to the study of various social science and humanities disciplines which they may choose to pursue in further depth at the university level.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at UTS: Equal Balance
UTS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What UTS says:
The goal of the French program is to give students the opportunity to become functionally bilingual, to achieve a high degree of proficiency. Learning cooperatively is an essential part of this program. The German and Spanish programs provide students with opportunities to develop thinking, analytical and communication skills in everyday and literary usage of these languages. Students will acquire a high degree of language proficiency. In addition to classroom, computer lab and library research activities, additional language immersion experiences are offered. The Latin program offers students the opportunity to study the foundation language and culture of the Romans, Extensive work in etymology and linguistic comparison direct the students to make connections between Latin and English and other modern languages.
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 UTS: Equal Balance
UTS 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 UTS says:
Expressive Arts at the University of Toronto Schools includes Drama, Interdisciplinary Studies (Art and Design), Music and Visual Arts. Students develop creative and critical thinking skills and apply the creative process through these subject areas while building on vital forms of communication. The development of dramatic, musical, interdisciplinary and visual literacy enables students to foster awareness and appreciation in the arts in their own and other cultures. In producing their own creative works, they communicate their insights while developing artistic skills and aesthetic judgment.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at UTS: Medium integration
UTS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What UTS says:
Computer science courses at UTS provide a detailed look at the principles of computing with an eye toward possible careers in scientific or computer related fields. Throughout each course a conscious effort is made to focus on concepts and principles that will be of lasting value in the face of changes and improvements in technology. Additional enrichment opportunities in Computer Science at UTS are available through student run clubs when there is sufficient interest and computing contests when it is feasible to offer them.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What UTS says:
The aim of the Health and Physical Education program is to encourage students to enjoy being physically active and to motivate them to be more physically active on a regular basis. The program emphasizes regular participation and involvement in a variety of enjoyable physical activities. The program strives to meet the needs of young people by providing a balanced curriculum of individual and group activities. These activities stress ways to improve physical fitness, competence and awareness in conjunction with relevant health issues and leadership opportunities. Classes will use the school gym, Robert Street playing field, swimming pool and Ridley Fitness Centre. Motor skill development, physical fitness, and living skills are all integral parts of the curriculum.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Research (Second part of the AP Capstone program)
- AP Seminar (First part of the AP Capstone program)
- AP Statistics
- AP World History
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Chemistry
- AP Chinese Language and Culture
- AP Computer Science A
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP French Language
- AP Human Geography
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Microeconomics
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at UTS: Ontario curriculum
UTS has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
UTS has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What UTS says:
The University of Toronto Schools follows the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education for the Province of Ontario.
Language
Learn about University of Toronto Schools's languages of instruction and enrolment.
UTS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at UTS: Accelerated
UTS has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What UTS says about their curriculum pace:
UTS remains strongly committed to the liberal arts and sciences curriculum which provides the opportunity for, and expectations of, an expanded and enriched program. Thus, individual fast-tracking and early course specialization are not compatible with our philosophy.
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 UTS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at UTS: Rigorous
UTS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What UTS says about their academic culture:
The University of Toronto Schools is a community of active learners. Most students are best described as high achieving, with many identified as gifted. They truly enjoy both the academic and co-curricular program. UTS students excel in many areas as demonstrated by the variety of prizes and awards won at the National and International level.
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.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What UTS says about their developmental priorities:
Vision Statement UTS is a transformative learning community focused on intellectual growth and individual development. We build on a tradition of academic distinction and leadership to develop socially responsible, global citizens.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
UTS offers Withdrawal Assistance
Students remain in a regular classroom for most of the day, but are pulled out for extra support from a qualified special education teacher.
What UTS says about their special need support:
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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 UTS says:
UTS employs a full school support model. Students are supported by a team of 4 guidance counsellors, 2 social workers, and 2 student success teachers, and a school nurse. Students with identified learning differences will receive accommodations, as recommended by a psycho-educational assessment or medical professional. UTS makes every effort to support the needs of every student.
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.
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 UTS says about their gifted learner support:
The University of Toronto Schools offers enriched programming for motivated learners throughout the curriculum.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, UTS students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UTS | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins |
| Site Average | 54 mins | 59 mins | 76 mins | 88 mins | 104 mins | 112 mins |
What UTS 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. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
University of Toronto Schools offers 19 competitive sports and 18 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross-country skiing
- Downhill skiing
- Fencing
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Ice Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Rugby
- Running
- Snowboarding
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
Clubs offered
University of Toronto Schools offers 29 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Foreign Language Club
Habitat for Humanity
Jazz Ensemble
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Online Magazine
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Radio club
Robotics club
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Animation
Art Club
Astronomy Club
Audiovisual Club
Band
Chess Club
Choir
Community Service
Computer Club
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
What UTS says about their extracurricular activities:
- Other Clubs and Extracurricular Programming include:Amnesty Club;Best Buddies; Classics Society; Dance Committee; Dramatic Productions, including "The Show" (yearly musical theatre production written, choreographed and created independently by UTS students); Gay-Straight Alliance; Gender Equity Committee; Modern Language Newspaper ("Echo"); Music: Bands, Choirs, Orchestras; Public Speaking; Publicity Club; Reach for the Top Team; South Ontario Model Assembly (SOMA); Stage Crew; The Cuspidor (monthly student newspaper); The Twig (student yearbook); UTS Wellness Committee
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