Mabin teachers use a balanced approach to teaching Language Arts. The program is often taught in a half-group setting. This allows our teachers to support differentiated instruction, and for each student to be challenged at an optimal level.

The Social Studies Curriculum is thematically based and, as frequently as possible, emerges from the interests of the students. The learning focuses on issues that are persistent, provocative and relevant to their lives. Students are encouraged to: look at the world around them, ask questions about causes and effects, identify misconceptions, and draw conclusions through experimentation, research, cooperation and communication skills. As with all other areas of the curriculum, opportunities for integration between subject areas are facilitated between teachers and student.

The primary goal of the French program, which is taught to students from JK to Grade 6, is to instill a love of French, a pride in the development of communication skills (oral and written) and a motivation to continue to improve language skills. Mabin teaches French in a way that integrates music, drama, and other subject areas.

Our Science program is designed to generate and build interest and excitement among students from JK to Grade 6. Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Our Science program encourages thoughtful questions and deep investigation. It is an integrated approach that embeds, where appropriate, technology-supported inquiry into the ongoing classroom themes. Lessons are taught both in the classroom and in our new “Innovation Hub” which is equipped with a selection of scientific resources and a maker space.

The Physical Education and Health program is designed not only to develop physical skills but to promote a joy of activity for one’s health and psychological well-being. The importance of teamwork, cooperation and respect are integral to this goal. All children in Grades 1-6 participate in classes several times a week. Health Education is scheduled for students in Grades 3 to 6, and focuses on areas such as: healthy eating, personal safety, development and substance use and abuse.

Taught through an experiential, multimedia approach, Art is viewed as a medium a child uses to communicate ideas, feelings, and perceptions. All children have Art class at least once a week. The process is highly valued and, when possible, Art Room activities are integrated with classroom themes. Children work in extended blocks of time with a variety of materials that ultimately lead them towards achieving visual literacy.

In Music, all grades follow the pedagogical approach of Carl Orff, learning about pitch, rhythm and form through imitating, exploring, innovating and improvising. In addition to studying movement and drama, students use a variety of instruments including voice, percussion, xylophones, keyboards and computers. When possible, the Music curriculum relates to emerging class themes. Annual concerts are held and are an exciting time for our community to gather in celebration of music.

All students get an opportunity to visit the library with the teacher-librarian at least once a week. The teacher-librarian works with classroom teachers to support inquiries and extend learning. Students in Grade 1 and above are welcome to borrow books, as are all parents. To visit our library catalogue, click here

Families are invited to donate books to the library through our Birthday Book tradition. For more information please contact Sonia or Randall
Please click on the links below to see our book wishlist for our 2017/18 academic year:
Non-Fiction
Picture Book
Chapter Book – younger grades
Chapter Book – older grades