Rosthern Junior College High School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at RJC: Progressive
RJC has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
What RJC says about their overall curriculum and approach:
All academic programs at RJC meet curricular standards set by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. Grade 10 - IMAGINE: A peacebuilding program IMAGINE is a full year, multi-credit grade 10 global-citizenship program that emphasizes collaboration, hands-on learning and community building. Students will spend periods of time outside the classroom applying their classroom learning in practical settings. Grade 11 - THRIVE: A wellness program THRIVE is a full year, multi-credit grade grade 11 wellness program that will assist students to grow and develop as individuals and as contributing members of their communities. Particular focus is given to an understanding of personal, mental health, and well as the wellness of creation and the community. Grade 12 - EXPLORE: A leadership development program EXPLORE is a full year, multi-credit grade 12 leadership program, with a particular focus on exploring post-secondary opportunities. Throughout the year students will explore diverse models of leadership, explore their own strengths, gifts, and values, and apply their learning in spaces outside of the classroom.
Approach
Focus | Religious-based |
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Academic | 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 RJC: Equal Balance
RJC has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RJC says:
Each mathematics teacher has his or her own classroom dynamic and structure. Our methods are rooted in traditional learning and an understanding of fundamental math skills. Inquiry activities and problem-based lessons are integrated throughout the courses as is appropriate for students' needs and abilities.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
As a school we use the textbooks developed for the latest provincial math curriculum.
Calculator policy:
Math teachers ask students to own a calculator suited to his or her course choice. We encourage students to use their calculator as an aide to their education.
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Science
Science approach at RJC: Equal Balance
RJC has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
All of our science teachers have years of experience in their content areas and are accredited in 30 level subject matter. Our school is transitioning to more inquiry-based and authentic learning in all areas and our newly renovated labs, as well as off-campus experiences help to support this type of education.
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 RJC: Equal Balance
RJC has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RJC says:
In each of our ELA courses students encounter a variety of texts in both contemporary and "classic" styles, the study of which always emphasizes the development of critical thinking and communication skills. Off-campus and inquiry-based experiences are used to expand the students' framework for authentic learning.
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 RJC: Equal Balance
RJC has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RJC says:
Given RJC’s emphasis on faith, service, and peacemaking, courses in the humanities and social sciences emphasize contemporary experiences and real-world problems. With a firm grounding in the way the past continues to shape the present, students are engaged with relevant questions about the condition of communities at home and around the world. The use of projects and tasks as primary assessment tools reflect our underlying goals of critical thinking and real-life skills.
Foreign Languages
What RJC says:
This information is not currently available.
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 RJC: Creative
RJC 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 RJC says:
Fine arts allow students to tap into their own creativity, develop strong communication skills and connect cross-curricular ideas in new ways. In many of the fine arts offered at RJC, students must learn to work together and for each other, requiring trust and reliance upon other students (ex. Putting together a play requires communicating ideas, teamwork to build sets, choral singing necessitates interdependence to create a fully-formed musical idea). Fine arts allow for a physical expression of mental, emotion and spiritual themes and ideas and so students should be allowed to access these internal feelings and to express them in ways that they may not feel able in other, “traditional” classrooms. This promotes self-agency, requires self-motivation and fosters co-operation. In this way, fine arts do not only improve skills within themselves, but impart students with the skills and tools to thrive in all areas of life.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at RJC: Medium integration
RJC has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What RJC says:
In Communication Media Class, the students are taught to use the computer as a creative tool in digital picture creation/manipulation, movie making, and audio engineering. Students use all three elements to produce digital media creations in class.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What RJC says:
RJC’s physical education program seeks to combine skill development with engagement and participation in physical activity. Our goals include promoting attitudes which will lead to lifelong physical activity, engaging students in volunteer activities, and fostering safe conduct in physical activities. We are less focused on competition, and more focused on community and team building. The grade 11 class participates in outdoor education, which usually takes the form of either a hiking trip or a canoe trip.
Religious Education
What RJC says:
RJC’s core mandate lies in preparing students for a life of faith, service, and peacemaking. To accomplish this, students are invited to consider and reflect on the biblical account, especially the importance and example of Jesus. Emphasis is placed on living out one’s values, and frequent service opportunities are provided to students. Through the Alternative Learning and Service Opportunities (ALSO) program, students partner with communities throughout North and Central America to respond to issues of injustice. RJC’s approach to religious instruction is invitational and open to discussion; all are welcome.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at RJC: Saskatchewan curriculum
RJC has a Saskatchewan curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Saskatchewan curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
RJC has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What RJC says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Rosthern Junior College High School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
RJC offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at RJC: Standard-enriched
RJC has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
What RJC says about their curriculum pace:
RJC has the ability to offer diverse learning opportunities within and outside the classroom. This includes regular school (overnight) trips where students can apply their learning and visits from community educational partners. RJC is also able to provide accommodations for students who have diverse learning needs.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
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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 RJC says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at RJC: Supportive
RJC has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What RJC says about their academic culture:
With a smaller size class, students are able to have more one-on-one opportunities with the teachers, and a tigher relationship with their classmates. The teachers get to know each student really well, both academically and personally, creating a stronger learning community.
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: Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
What RJC says about their developmental priorities:
To be living and learning in this community, students will have the opportunity to be independent of their parents, and learn to live with other people. Through arts and sports, students are able to improve socially outside of the classroom, and gain support from the community.
Special needs support
RJC offers Indirect Support
Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day; the teacher receives special training in accommodating special needs and/or learning disabled students.
What RJC says about their special need support:
We strive to work with students where they are at and modify our program to meet specific student needs. Building a relationship with the student is key to our success.
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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 |
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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 |
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Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
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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 |
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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 RJC says about their gifted learner support:
As a result of our academic program, many students have gone on to thrive at universities in Canada, United States and around the world.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, RJC students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
10 | 11 | 12 | |
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RJC | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins |
Site Average | 86 mins | 102 mins | 109 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What RJC says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
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Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 10 to Gr. 12 |
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 10 to Gr. 12 |
Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 10 to Gr. 12 |
Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 10 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
Rosthern Junior College High School offers 9 competitive sports and 14 recreational sports.
- Curling
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cross-country skiing
- Football
- Golf
- Ice Hockey
- Ice Skating
- Running
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Weightlifting
Clubs offered
Rosthern Junior College High School offers 20 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What RJC says about their extracurricular activities:
- We have a grand musical performance each year in June!