School Curriculum

The IB Primary Years Programme is a wonderful framework for leaning in elementary school. It allows children to explore, question, create and experience learning, under careful guidance of the teachers. The Programme of Inquiry provides the framework for teaching science, history and social studies. This collection of learning units allows for the exploration of subject matter that is relevant, challenging and engaging. The units are transdisciplinary and incorporate aspects of language arts, mathematics and the arts. They are the foundation of learning in the IB Primary Years Programme.

Literacy

Reading and writing are tools that open the world to children. These skills allow access to all the exciting sources of information available to them; from books to the world wide web, reading is the key to entry and writing enables communication.

Literacy learning at Sunnybrook School is enriched and accelerated from the early years. 
 Children in grades one and two learn reading and writing using various materials. We combine a phonics and literature based approach with which we guide young children through the early stages of skills acquisition.

 From grades three - six, the language arts are integrated into the units of study. Grammar, sentence structure, word study and writing skills are taught throughout the elementary years. Reading, creative and expository writing, and library activities are integrated into all areas of the Programme of Inquiry. Reading materials include novels, poetry, newspapers and magazines, non-fiction books and on-line sources.

In order to ensure a comprehensive approach to language arts we use a combination of programmes and approaches. These include First Steps Literacy, PM Benchmarks, Rigby literacy and DRA.

Sunnybrook takes an individualized approach to spelling, allowing children to progress according to their abilities, with a focus on more in depth word study as they mature in their literacy skills.

Mathematics

Mathematics provides a gateway into understanding how the world works. We want our students to enjoy learning math, and to understand the purpose of their learning in this area. Sunnybrook has recently adopted the Singapore Math program for the entire school.

Mathematics learning is a progressive, cumulative process, in which learners must understand underlying concepts while mastering basic skills and facts. Our mathematics curriculum balances the acquisition of skills with the understanding of concepts.

Personal & Social Development

Every child is a citizen of the school community. We expect fair, courteous and kind behavior from every Sunnybrook student. Respect and caring are the underlying values we promote with students in all our interactions.

Children learn from experience and from mistakes. Adults nurture that learning by providing consistency, clear expectations, and support when things go wrong. Teachers help children navigate social situations so they learn and develop the skills to manage on their own. Our curriculum includes a strong emphasis on the development of the attitudes that will assist our students in becoming responsible citizens.

The IB Learner Profile contributes to character development at Sunnybrook School. Our students are encouraged to develop these attributes in the Programme of Inquiry, in language arts, in all areas of school life. We use this common vocabulary throughout the school to nurture these important qualities in the development of the child.