At V.I.S., academic standards and expectations are high and follow the guidelines of the Ontario Curriculum. However, we aspire to view each child as a unique individual, and as a holistic learner who can strive toward unlimited goals based on his/her own unique possibilities. As such, evaluation embraces academic achievement, effort and commitment. Thus, the goal of our progress report is to evaluate achievement in academic skills in relation to a holistic learner with unique possibilities and gifts.

The school provides a progress report per term (September, March and June). Parent-Teacher interviews are held in term one, a Student-Led interview in term two and an optional Parent-Teacher interview at the completion of term three. Ongoing communication regarding progress is strongly encouraged throughout the year. Voice Intermediate holds exams in terms two and three in core subjects (Mathematics, English, History, Geography, Science and French.)

For organizational purposes and transition to secondary schools, our progress report is compartmentalized into specific subjects and basic skills in each core subject. A detailed description of curriculum content covered each term is included in each report. Skills are evaluated through letter grades and final grades in each subject are awarded in the form of percentage as specified by the Ontario Curriculum.

Evaluation - Subjects and Academic Skills as found in Progress Report

1. English

• Comprehension
• Fluency

• Spelling
• Grammar
• Writing to persuade
• Writing to inform
• Creative writing
• Vocabulary

Speaking

• Participation in class debate
• Ability to articulate ideas and opinions
• Ability to present in front of an audience

Listening

• Listening during class discussion/lessons
• Listening for instructions

2. French and Spanish

Reading

Writing

Listening

Speaking

3. Mathematics

• Problem solving in Geometry

• Problem solving in Measurement

Data Management

• Collecting and interpreting data
• Graphing and Plotting
• Integers
• Probability
• Problem solving in Data Management

4. Science and Technology

5. Social Studies

6. The Arts

7. Physical Education and Health

8. Student as a Learner

Projects

For each project, essay and/or assignment, students will be evaluated on various criteria (at the discretion of the teacher and in relation to the assignment) such as content, use of grammar and punctuation, creativity, effort, time management, neatness and organizational skills.

Late Assignments and Homework not completed

Late assignments and uncompleted homework on a regular basis affect grades. Each student has the responsibility to complete work to the best of her/his ability. This is a strict expectation of the school. When homework is not in on time, a note from the parent/guardian needs to be sent to school.

Missed Work

It is the responsibility of each student to make up any work missed because of absence. If absence is due to illness, extensions will be given (depending on the nature of the illness) and students can negotiate fair ways to make up their work. In most cases, students can call peers to obtain homework assignments and/or notes relating to lessons. Teachers can be contacted at their discretion.