Having a well-developed methodology and strategy is the best way to achieve an objective. At Maple Bear this journey of knowledge happens with a clear vision of the end goal: an independent student, able to interact with the world. At all of our schools, learning is based on projects. With project work, students learn while being engaged and committed. Proven methodologies like hands-on project work are what sets Maple Bear apart.

Through collaboration, participation, investigation and experimentation, our students are so engaged that they come away from the experience with a more intuitive and rooted understanding of the material. One of the highlights of Maple Bear Methodology is the Gradual Acquisition of Responsibility model. In this model, the students are encouraged to explore new challenges and take an active role in their learning process. All this is clearly demonstrated to the students by the teachers, as they identify the division of learning responsibilities, the objectives, the comprehension strategies and the cognitive process in general.

Another highlight of the Maple Bear program is called the Balanced Literacy Proposal. This idea recognises that the students need to use a variety of strategies to become proficient readers and writers. It also needs to strike a balance between whole class instruction as well as instruction in small groups. The support of the teacher changes over time, as the students evolve their skills from a group setting to individual reading and comprehension activities.

This approach of balanced language development is focussed on comprehension. It promotes reading, speaking and listening competencies. This happens in a context which is structured, dynamic, real and is centred on everyone’s learning outcomes.

Developed at Maple Bear, these activities provide many opportunities for students to participate in relevant dialogues. They cultivate their ability to be critical readers, efficient communicators and will support them as they mature into well-rounded, informed and engaged citizens.