Curriculum
Highly individualized grade 1 to 8 programs are implemented at The Dunblaine School based on Ontario Curriculum Guidelines and Direct Instruction Methodology. Carefully planned and structured learning plans are used for specific academic skills in reading, writing and arithmetic.
The DISTAR Program
The DISTAR program follows our carefully structured learning plans, which includes Reading Mastery, Decoding (Corrective Reading), Reasoning and Writing, Spelling and Connecting Math Concepts. This research based approach to teaching was developed by Siegfried Englemann, a philosopher interested in promoting the theory of practice through instruction, and was introduced to Dunblaine by Sick Kid’s Child Development Clinic. By consistently providing small ability based groups, instructed by a trained teacher at Dunblaine, promotion of skills for reading, decoding and comprehension are consolidated. The following website offers further information about this approach: www.sra4kids.com.
Jump Math
Jump Math was introduced to Dunblaine staff and students by founder and mathematician, John Mighton. This program has promoted math confidence, reinforced basic numeracy, and utilized grade specific materials and workbooks that enable students to learn skills and concepts through step-by-step instruction. With consistent practice and preparation in daily math activities, achievement and success is possible for all students. Visit the following website for further information: www.jumpmath.org .
Adaptive Technology
Adaptive technology, which includes literacy based computer software, such as Word Q, Speak Q, Inspiration and Draftbuilder is also available to our students. We also utilize portable word processing devices, such as the Neo, Dana and Alphasmart. For successful use and promotion of computer technology, each student is assessed to determine appropriate programs, and trained accordingly to become independent learners. The features of our software may help with gathering of information, organization, completion of written output, and confidence.
Handwriting Without Tears
Handwriting Without Tears is a systematic, developmentally based, multi-sensory approach for elementary children, created by Jan Olsen, an Occupational Therapist who specializes in Handwriting. At Dunblaine, the consistency of learning productive and fluent skills for printing are developed through good work habits, specific terminology, left-right and top-bottom formation, and proper pencil and paper position to produce optimal penmanship. For further information on this approach, along with great resources for students, professionals and parents, visit www.hwtears.com.
And More
Each term, Dunblaine plans fun, exciting and community oriented activities that usually take place on Friday afternoon. Some examples include yoga, dance, and gymnastics. Also to enhance the curriculum, the children are involved in various field trips to such places as The Science Centre, Leah Poslun's Theatre, Royal Ontario Museum, and various conservation centres.
The Dunblaine Curriculum also incorporates Visual and Dramatic Arts, Music, French, Speech and Occupational Therapy, and Social Skills.
Overall, our individualized and enriched programs offer a complimentary balance to educational, social and emotional skills that prepare students for lifelong learning opportunities and success.
