Middle School

List of 6 items.

• Language Arts

  The English language arts program is designed to encourage and enable students to be independent and enthusiastic readers, thoughtful writers, critical thinkers and confident speakers. The students delve into critical thinking questions and common themes in a broad spectrum of literary texts. They learn to examine a topic, organize ideas and information, use precise language and produce texts from the literature read during the year. Technology and digital media expand students’ ways to respond to literature and publish writing. Students are developing and strengthening grammar skills as they continue to study the qualities of clear and coherent writing. Oral presentations, in addition to formal, properly researched debates. are vehicles for students to express their opinions on a relevant issue or topic.

• Social Studies

  Both the History and Geography courses have been designed to be inquiry-based and focused around critical thinking questions that help provide a larger context for student learning. Teachers are using the new Ontario social studies curriculum and integrating it with the study of Israel, global education outcomes and other subject areas in the General and Judaic Studies. The history portion of the course helps the students understand that a knowledge of the past provides a lens through which to understand the present and to view the future. The geography portion of the course is designed to provide students with a better understanding of their world. It looks at the relationship between humans and their natural and created environments. Engaging scenarios are included to make this course relevant to students. At the same time, international examples are used to broaden students’ geographical view of the world. Students are engaged in active learning through a variety of projects that includes the exploration of photographs, documents and other primary sources. All units of study incorporate reading and writing skills as part of the core curriculum and foster critical discussions and reflective thinking.

• Math

  The goal of the mathematics program is for students to become proficient and confident mathematical problem solvers (confident in problem-based learning) as they develop and apply new conceptual understandings, facts and procedural knowledge through the mathematical processes including representing, reflecting, reasoning and proving their answers. This thoughtful approach helps students better understand what they are learning. Technology is used to help math come to life especially as students start using E-textbooks.

• Science

  Students are engaged in rigorous and innovative science learning as they investigate and think critically about the world around them. In each grade, the students explore four units of study, as specified by the Ontario Curriculum, including Life Systems, Structures and Mechanisms, Properties of and Changes in Matter, and Conservation of Energy and Resources. This approach develops the students’ skills of inquiry and allows them to make connections between disciplines. The students apply their problem-solving skills to global issues of the 21st century with a focus on building a stronger connection to scientific advancements and challenges in Israel. Activities aim to build skills of questioning, scientific discussion and debate, experimentation, research and documentation in developmentally appropriate ways. The teachers and students use technology to support learning, research and communication, with a focus on analysis and evaluation of a variety of sources. Whether it is testing the construction of a bridge, designing a toy using hydraulics, or learning about the impact of a foreign species to the ecosystem, students learn how to apply science to the real world.

• French

  Robbins Hebrew Academy recognizes the importance of French as one of Canada’s two official languages. With the advantage of learning three languages (English, Hebrew and French), students have the potential for more opportunities in participating in an increasingly globalized economy and a better understanding of Canada's history. The goal of the program is for students to use the language confidently and correctly in familiar contexts and authentic situations, to develop the strategies that will help them acquire the language, and to develop an appreciation of the French culture. The teacher engages the students in meaningful communication experiences using a balanced literacy approach and cooperative learning activities, thus creating a positive and dynamic learning environment. In planning both instruction and assessment, the teacher keeps in mind the importance of developing critical thinking skills with an eye to creating integrative projects with the General and Judaic Studies.

• Health and Physical Education

  The physical education program promotes an active lifestyle through maximum participation in a wide range of sports, games and rhythmic activities. Students learn how skills, concepts and strategies learned in one activity can apply to other activities. They take on leadership opportunities as club helpers, junior assistant coaches, league organizers, referees and demonstrators. Students participate in a variety of discussions related to different health issues, personal growth and healthy relationships.