Bridge to Grade - Unionville College

Head-Start @ UC

The Montessori philosophy and method of teaching fosters a loving, independent environment tailored to the individual needs and development of each student.

We have significantly enhanced the Montessori programme of education by offering additional opportunities for learning in areas such as French, music, computers and physical education. In addition, we have developed two exciting “Head-Start” programmes in the Sciences and Arts which help our soon-to-be Casa graduates get a “Head-Start” venturing into grade 1. They have access to our private elementary school resources to assist them in every way possible.

Final year students of Casa Montessori programme gain early entry into the “Head Start” Elementary programme at Unionville College. As part of one of the best private schools with outstanding science education programmes, the children begin their scientific discovery in a state-of-the-art, fully-equipped lab under the guidance of our Ontario-certified science teacher. Geared to the capabilities of the children, the programme is designed to be highly engaging. Due to its inquiry-based approach, the students learn through “hands-on” experiments coupled with SmartBoard technology. The “Head Start” Project equips our young scientists to begin their enriched Grade 1 programme with enthusiasm and an enhanced set of learning skills.

Children registered in the Casa Montessori programme will experience a unique learning opportunity with access to our elementary school’s Art & Design Studio. Under the professional direction of our resident artist, the children participate in an exciting and creative arts experience. Our programme provides a natural vehicle through which students can explore and express themselves. Through this medium they can discover and interpret the world around them. Participation involves development of motivation and confidence, and the use of creative ways of thinking.

Beginning reading skills are taught in the Casa programme using the Montessori methodologies and extended through the Primary Phonics Reading Programme, which is systematic and phonics-based. This programme has three components and six levels which students work through at their own pace. We are proud to exceed the recommendations set forth by the Ontario Human Rights ruling on “The Right-to Read” and the expectations put forth by the Ontario ministry of education.

Having a solid mathematical foundation makes math enjoyable and memorable, resulting in mathematical success. JUMP Math workbooks are easy to understand and help students develop their math skills using a guided discovery approach. The books are designed to allow for continuous assessment and the JUMP programme is based on the belief that all children can excel at math. Using workbooks such as JUMP Math at the Casa level helps students make learning connections as they transition into the Grade 1 math programme.

All Canadian public schools offer a core French programme which usually begins in Grade 4. At UC, French instruction begins in preschool. French is taught using a unique programme called AIM (Accelerated Integrated Methodology). The premise of this approach is that students learn and remember better when they combine gestures to go with the words they are saying. It includes defined gestures for 700 essential French words. This is one of the most effective methods that help children achieve high levels of fluency. Older Casa children then learn to make simple sentences by combining the nouns and gestures thereby building the foundation to develop fluency in the Elementary programme.

Bridge to Grade 1

Head-Start @ UC

Casa Science “Head-Start” Science Programme

Casa “Head-Start” Arts Programme

Primary Phonics Reading Programme

JUMP Math

French

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