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St. Michaels University School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at SMUS: Progressive
SMUS has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
International curriculum & programs at SMUS: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What SMUS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
SMUS's curricular approach is a blend of traditional, which ensures success in provincial and AP exams, and progressive enhancements that allow students to dive deeper into topics and find their passions. This is achieved through inquiry-based learning, which speaks to learners' natural curiosity, and project-based learning that gives opportunities for them to express creativity across subject areas. Additionally SMUS is an innovator in experiential programs - ensuring students of all grades gain hands-on experiences outside the traditional curriculum, including outdoor education, leadership and service. SMUS is also a committed champion of personalized learning, shaping education around the needs and interests of each student.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMUS says:
At all levels, SMUS follows the provincial curriculum but adds enrichment using real world examples, problem solving and project work. Where possible, SMUS connects mathematics to other subject areas. At the Junior School, there is a strong focus on building foundation skills and math fluency through the exploration of number concepts, patterns and relations, spatial sense, and statistics and probability. By Middle School, students are continuing to develop concepts and skills, while emphasizing real world applications of mathematical ideas. At the Senior School, skills and concepts are developed in several different ways - numerically, graphically, algebraically, and written. After the Grade 10 level, students can choose which stream of mathematics best suits their post-secondary needs. As well, we have three levels of Calculus available to students. This includes two levels of AP Calculus to again offer the best possible preparation for university.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
There are no set texts but teachers make use of Maths Makes Sense, Quest 2000, McGraw-Hill and calculus texts from Stewart and Prentice-Hall. This is supplemented by iPads, laptops and other technological resources. Students can also enter mathematics competitions.
Calculator policy:
At the Junior School, there are no calculators except where they are part of a personalized learning program. In the Middle School, calculators are introduced as a tool. By Senior School, authorized graphic calculators are a part of the curriculum but there are several chapters without calculators.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at SMUS: Balanced Literacy
SMUS has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at SMUS: Equal balance
SMUS has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
At the primary level, integrated learning - connecting science with language and mathematics - strengthens understanding of different concepts. By Grades 3-5, students learn lab procedures and the scientific process through an inquiry-based approach. In Middle School, many of the concepts and skills students learn are gained through "hands-on and minds-on" experiments and inquiries. Accordingly, Middle School Science classes take a variety of forms including: experiments, guided inquiries, student-designed investigations, mystery guests, field trips and field work. At the Senior School, the required science courses are more expository. Students interested in marine science can take an elective course. At the Grade 11 and 12 levels, students choose from several options and motivated students are offered the opportunity to enroll in advanced courses which prepare them for the Grade 12 Advanced Placement program.
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 SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMUS says:
The English department offers a variety of courses that address the interests and needs of the students. For capable students, we offer the chance to look at the traditional canon, where they study works ranging from the Anglo-Saxon Period to the 20th Century, which can lead to AP English Literature and Composition and AP English Language and Composition. These courses, particularly AP English Literature and Composition, are usually theme-based and seek to address a common question or subject, for example: literature of the road, literature of the absurd, indigenous literature and black humour. We also offer a course in creative writing, in which aspiring authors can receive guidance in writing their own poetry, short fiction and dramatic monologues, and meet visiting authors. In the years that this course has been running, SMUS students have won many provincial and national awards for their writing.
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 SMUS: Expanding Communities
SMUS has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMUS says:
SMUS offers a comprehensive language program. Beginning in Kindergarten, students learn French through story, theatre and music to put the language into context. In Middle School, students take French and Mandarin. In Senior School, students can continue their learning in French, Spanish and Mandarin. Languages help develop confidence, and students are often asked to put their skills into practice through public speaking.
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 SMUS: Equal Balance
SMUS 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 SMUS says:
Starting in Kindergarten, SMUS students are introduced to a variety of fine arts, including music, choir, strings, drama and visual art. In Middle School, students delve deeper into pursuits in visual art, choir and either band or strings. In Senior School, students have addition opportunities to broaden their skills with courses in subjects such as creative writing, drama and Advanced Placement Studio Art. Beyond the classroom, students hone skills through performances at professional theatre venues. In Junior School, the Grade 5 classes have an annual large performance - either an opera or a musical. In Middle School, students participate in a biennial musical production. In Senior School, students can participate in the annual musical program. There are opportunities for strings, band and choral performances throughout the year. Students also have access to a range of extracurricular art opportunities, such as jazz band, choral ensembles and student Art Councils.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at SMUS: Medium integration
SMUS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What SMUS says:
It is clear from the most cutting-edge brain research, that exercise during the school day is critically important to support optimum brain function in our students. At SMUS, our physical education program is focused on using exercise to help students learn. Our philosophy articulates it best: SMUS Physical Education Program aims to maximize students’ physical, emotional and academic well-being through exercise, while developing the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to support a healthy, active life. Our PE classes are high-energy, supportive environments inspired by a team approach and engaging modern workouts. Students learn how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, while cultivating character through a variety of team and individual experiences, as well as different skill acquisition activities.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Art History
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Psychology
- AP Research (Second part of the AP Capstone program)
- AP Seminar (First part of the AP Capstone program)
- AP Statistics
- AP Spanish Language
- AP Spanish Literature
- AP Studio Art: 2-D Design
- AP Studio Art: 3-D Design
- AP Studio Art: Drawing
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Chemistry
- AP Chinese Language and Culture
- AP Computer Science A
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP Environmental Science
- AP European History
- AP French Language
- AP Government and Politics: Comparative
- AP Human Geography
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Microeconomics
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at SMUS: British Columbia curriculum
SMUS has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]What SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at SMUS: Reggio Emilia
SMUS has a Reggio Emilia approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Academic approach).
[Show: About Reggio Emilia?]
What SMUS says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
The SMUS Kindergarten program is an inquiry and play-based progam inspired by the Reggio-Emilia philosophy. At SMUS, the child is a collaborator at the centre of their learning with teachers and parents acting as partners and guides. SMUS cultivates a joyful learning experience, fostering curiousity and a love of exploration, which includes the use of nature and the environment as a third teacher. Children benefit from small class sizes, two teachers to every classroom, and additional, specialist teachers in music, PE, library, French and art.
Language
Learn about St. Michaels University School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
SMUS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at SMUS: Standard-enriched
SMUS has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What SMUS says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
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 SMUS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at SMUS: Rigorous
SMUS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What SMUS says about their academic culture:
SMUS's academic culture is more supportive until grade 10. After which, students prepare for exams and university entrance, and the culture naturally becomes more rigorous.
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 SMUS says about their developmental priorities:
SMUS provides opportunities and feedback that supports students in becoming self-aware, both in terms of what they value and the role they can play in the world. Equally, the program positions students to be curious about those different from themselves, so that they learn to openly listen in a way that builds understanding of other perspectives. Finally, SMUS offers the reflective and technical tools to help students navigate those differences in a way that enhances the lives of all involved.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
SMUS offers No support
SMUS offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
What SMUS says about their special need support:
This information is not currently available.
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 SMUS says:
This information is not currently available.
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 SMUS says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 2, SMUS students perform an average of 15 mins of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMUS | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins |
| Site Average | 5 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins |
What SMUS 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. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 6 to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 6 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | K 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
St. Michaels University School offers 15 competitive sports and 5 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Cricket
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Rowing
- Rugby
- Running
- Sailing
- Soccer
- Squash
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Weightlifting
Clubs offered
St. Michaels University School offers 23 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Jazz Ensemble
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Radio club
Robotics club
School newspaper
Student Council
Yearbook
Yoga
Art Club
Audiovisual Club
Band
Choir
Community Service
Computer Club
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: St. Michaels University School
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